SPARK PLUGS!!!! ARE THEY A HYPE OR ARE THEY FOR REAL?

[jimberg]

so why isnt there a platinum tip plug with a copper core? Or is there?

I went to the Autolite and NGK website to find out more on how these plugs are constructed and they don't seem to want to say. However, I had an Autolite 25 Platinum plug in the garage that I busted open and cut into the electrode. Look at what I found...



A copper core.

you never did say why platinum tip plugs have a weaker spark?

I thought I did when I wrote:

Platinum acts as a catalyst to allow a spark to occur at a lower voltage than your typical steel tipped plugs

A lower voltage spark means a weaker spark. I should also correct myself at this point and say that not all copper core plugs are steel tipped. Autolite uses chromium-nickel and platinum.

The ads for the new iridium tipped plugs seems to imply that since the iridium or platinum tip is more durable, it can also be much smaller. The size of the tip is probably what allows the spark to occur at a lower voltage. Our non-platinum plugs have pretty much a flat surface for an electrode tip. Won't it be fun when we start debating the pros and cons of iridium tipped spark plugs?

And how can you say todays cars use wimpy coils?

You're correct. I should have said that cars designed around platinum plugs have wimpy coils. This is why if your car comes with platinum plugs you should stick with them. Our Mustangs have excellent stock coils and ignition systems.

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351W 89 Mustang GT Convertible

[This message has been edited by jimberg (edited 07-16-2001).]