Thread: Side Gap Spark Plugs [*]

This HOW TO write-up on Side Gapping Spark Plugs has been added to the How To section and can be found HERE.

By SyntheticShield

try it now...I was still updating.....

webracin

I know this procedure is recommended for copper core plugs, but, just out of curiosity, could this be done to Iridium plugs?

No. The center electrode is too small. The advantage of the irridiums is that an irridium plug can be made with a much finer center electrode which results in much lower energy needed to jump the gap. But you still have the ground electrode blocking direct view to the combustion chamber. There for the flame front propagates laterally, whereas sidegapped plugs can propagate somewhat vertically as well as plugs like Brisk and so forth that are designed with this intention.

I'll experiment with an old set I have laying around and provide my results. Spring break, probably.

Just something I noticed when I side gaped mine, instead of finding a small file, you can use one of the Dremel cut off wheels as a file(it is abrasive on all sides) , just loose in your hands though, not on the machine, It does great for de-burring the ground strap, and is thin enough that it can do the above without nicking the electrode

Thats exactly what I do when I side gap mine. Though recently Ive used two arbors, one with a cut off wheel and one with the 180 grit sand paper wheel and just quick changed them and used the sand paper wheel to debur and round off edges, but I started out using the cut off wheel for everything.

I never took the time to try. Fixing my broken motor took priority at the time. I have a nearly new factory set laying around, but I am a bit scared to attempt using them in my car with my mods. I don't mind cutting them and sending them to someone that's willing to try them, though.

I was going to try it, then got lazy.

its kind of like matching all the plugs so they all point in the right direction. im sure it helps, but not enough to make a difference on a normal build. maybe if you were looking to eek every tenth of a horsepower out of the car.