Spark Plug Gaps

[Beefer]

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]

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]

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 )

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]

Re: Spark Plug Gaps

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

Was I supposed to CHANGE my spark plugs ? :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.