Spark Plug Gaps

Beefer

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Aug 4, 2008
Messages
1,737
So I was reading another thread, and it made me wonder. Why do plugs need to be gapped to specific measurements? They'll still create a spark, won't they? Does the distance affect the heat the spark creates? Just one of those things that I don't know about.... :)
 

bigdee

Commander
Joined
Jul 27, 2006
Messages
2,665
Re: Spark Plug Gaps

Well you have to start somewhere so the car manufactures have established what they think is optimal.
In today's engines with electronic/capacitive discharge ignitions gap is not really critical until it becomes too wide to make a spark....usually >.070”. This (and platinum) is why cars can go 100k before changing plugs.
 

rbh

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Mar 21, 2009
Messages
7,939
Re: Spark Plug Gaps

Some ignition systems allow you to open the gap up to get a bigger spark.
(bigger hotter spark, better fuel burn), >>>>>>>>>>>>(yayaya, index plugs, I know ;) :D)

While on the older units that do not have a great big ignition system you would not get that kind of spark unless the gap was closed up some.
 

Moody Blue

Captain
Joined
May 24, 2004
Messages
3,136
Re: Spark Plug Gaps

This (and platinum) is why cars can go 100k before changing plugs.

Was I supposed to CHANGE my spark plugs ? :eek::facepalm:

I have 226,000km (140,000 miles ) on mine now and it still starts and runs perfectly. I'm not about to try and get them out now.
 
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