Mr.Ames said:
They conduct electricity fine. It's the thermal properties where platinum has its short coming. After firing, the center electrode remains hotter with platinum plugs than with irridium or copper plugs. This can create a hot spot which can lead to pre-ignition. Although pre-ignition differs from detonation, it can lead to detonation and also has similar symptoms.
Regarding the seafoam question posed earlier: Personally, I think seafoam works great in cleaning out carbon build up in the intake tract. However, with a detonation issue, you may have carbon build up in the in the combustion chamber. To clean that out, I remove the plugs and pour ATF into the spark plug hole. I let it sit for awhile, then cover the holes with paper towels and turn the engine, either by hand or with the starter. Let it sit for a few hours then turn the engine for about 5 seconds with the starter (plugs still out), this allows the remaining fluid to exit through the spark plug hole or past the rings. Replace the spark plugs and fire up the car. Once the engine is warmed up, a bunch of white smoke will come out of the exhaust (even more than when using Seafoam). Keep it running until the smoke clears. After the smoke clears, change the oil and put in fresh plugs. I'll usually change the oil again in a week after doing this.
ATF is similar to motor oil but cannot withstand as much heat and has a hell of a lot more detergents in it. That's why it works so well in cleaning out the engine. When I first heard of the procedure, I thought it was BS. However, I did try it and was amazed with the results. You can also do the same with Seafoam. . . ATF is a little cheaper. Try at your own risk.
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