Spark plug advise

Jack21 · #1 (**permalink**) 07-24-2002, 06:06 PM

Inquiring minds wanted to know how advisable or inadvisable it was to use Platinum type spark plugs with MSD ignitions, so I asked. MSD reply below:

Dear Sir;

Platinum and other "hype" type plugs tend to run too hot and can cause them to prematurely fail. We suggest using a standard type plug with a heat range or two colder.

Thank You,
MSD Tech

petek · #2 (**permalink**) 07-24-2002, 07:47 PM

Now that is interesting. I don't view platinum plugs as "hype" as I seem to remember that the platinum plugs were an outgrowth of the EPA emissions requirements (along with the observation that the major auto manufacutures made when they went to full computer control: hey, no more tune ups).

On the other hand... the platinum electrode is quite small compared with a normal center electrode. The extra energy from the MSD unit could, potentially, might, perhaps overheat the small diameter platinum electrode and burn the electrode up.

On the gripping hand (anyone know the reference)... I'll betcha that the customer service department, upon noting the number of complaints about the MSD box burning up platinum plugs, has decided to brand platinum plugs as "hype".

Campy · #3 (**permalink**) 07-24-2002, 08:52 PM

What about a platinum plug with a heat range or two colder? I agree with petek, platinum plugs are not hype. The platinum electrodes are more resitant to burning. I have an MSD 6AL system and I have been using platinum plugs for over one year (2000 miles). This weekend I'll pull a plug or two and take a look. I'll let you know.

Rick Parker · #4 (**permalink**) 07-25-2002, 12:06 AM

Platinum plugs and all their variations were viewed as a marketing opportunity read ($$) by manufacturers and as a way of reducing the wear on the spark plug gap itself by the engineers. The smaller diameter of the center electrode is designed to reduce the area that deposits can collect on and a smaller area to absorb heat. They have been well received by auto manufacturers many of which say the will go 100,000 miles before needing replacement. There is no argument that they will last longer do to the reduced wear. However the application of the minute platinum discs that are laser welded to the electrodes has caused me personally some concern. I witnessed the disassembly of a Freshly built mid 80's Volvo turbo that had one of these small wafers (discs) dislodge from the ground electrode and deposit itself on an exaust valve seat, necessitating major repairs to an otherwise very well built engine. Upon contacting the plug manufacturer and discussing the problem with the performance machine shop that did the work it was learned that this is actually more common than you would think. If the "Heat Range" is not correct for the conditions experienced ANY spark plug will fail prematurely. As a group we have many individual modifications to our engines and must watch the heat range closely. If in doubt use a Colder plug. As far as a MSD box burning up Platinum plugs; many of the OEM ignition boxes have similar spark energy (remember 100,000 miles) available but it is only used if needed to ionize the plug gap, ie: only the potential (voltage) energy required will be called upon.

Just my observation & opinion. (everyone has one)

Rick

Jack21 · #5 (**permalink**) 07-25-2002, 06:18 PM

Guess the old adage, "There's no such thing as a stupid question", still holds true.

Dominik · #6 (**permalink**) 07-26-2002, 06:37 AM

I thought the platin and chrome plugs as well were intruduced to keep them cleaner at cold operation of the engine.

meaning a CR42XLS that would barely reach operating temperature in a high compression big-block is nowadays used in a OPEL / GM 2.0 litre engine with 150 hp for cruising around towm (as well as autobahn, of course) and still is not fouling.

dominik