buddha

Okay any suggestions from people who have replaced the plugs in their cars? Do I have to take the strut brace off? Also correct me if I'm wrong but I don't have to gap the Denso Iridium plugs do I? I would believe they come pre-gapped. Is that a word? Any suggestions would be appreciated.

moomaster_99

Always check the gap on the plugs....never trust them!!!


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2001 Cl-S Black on Black with Navigation
Black Tint all around (15%~45%)
Weapon-R Dragon Filter
Weapon-R Coil-Overs
Koni Adjustable Struts
Comptech Sway Bars
(sooner than I thought...)
Comptech Headers

buddha

Man, that sucks cause those tips are like pins. In that case what's the best way to check the gaps... and don't say those cheap ass coin thing that sells for like a buck.

WebToker

DO NOT GAP THESE PLUGS. YOU WILL BREAK THEM. They do not need to be gaped. And yes you have to take the strut bar off.

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2001 Acura 3.2 CL Type-S
Comptech Springs
Comptech Exhaust
Denso Spark Plugs
Apexi V-AFC
AEM CAI

EricL

They do make "gapping" tools (gap tool) that have wire like feeler gages or just exercise extreme care with a really good set of feeler gauges. If you start "thin" and be careful, you shouldn't have a problem measuring.

Do see this note on how to adjust the gap on the Denso without breaking the plug's tip:

http://www.machv.com/denirsparplu.html

EricL

An excerpt from a link on plugs (including the Iridium, Platinum, and Platinum+4):

"As for setting the plug gap, always follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations - unless you are installing a set of Bosch’s Platinum+4 spark plugs. These plugs are pregapped at the factory to a standard 1.6 mm gap. This is necessary to achieve maximum plug performance and longevity so don’t change the gap..."

Here is the link:

Spark Plug Technology: Preventing Misfires, Larry Carley, Underhood Service, November 2000

WebToker

I warned ya...

buddha

thanks for the info... i believe that i'm ready for the install now.

EricL

Yes, warning noted.

I do want to emphasize that you are correct about the, "I warned ya..."

There have been a number of "knuckleheads" who have just grabbed a standard gapping tool, and snapped off the thin and brittle center electrode. The tech support at Denso said that the plugs should be gapped by bending/tapping the outer ground electrode. If the car is stock, no headers, etc, then someone should be able to just pop the factory gapped plugs in (1.1mm gap in the IK16 and IK20 series).

As long as the center electrode is gently touched, all is ok. The problem comes from people prying the gap open. Even then, that has never been the correct way to "gap" a plug.

maddogtx

buddha- are you talking about the gap between your two front teeth?

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'99 BMW M3
Dinan Stage II

WebToker

I think I met you at the meet, you where buddhas friend that showed up even though he didn't ;-)

buddha

I could say something derogatory but I won't.

buddha

yeah he's the one.