elderlycoffee
Member
- :
- 2007 Sunlight Silver mazdaspeed 3
How hard is it to change them and what kind should I get? I have a multiple misfire code so I'ma try the splugs first.
Spark Plugs?
- Thread starter elderlycoffee
- Start date
Darth Vader
Member
I can do it in under 20 minutes at home, if the plugs are already gapped right.
Saskatchewan17
Member
- :
- 2008 TR Mazdaspeed 3
Which isn't even really that bad at all, IMO.
Darth Vader
Member
I get all the tools lined up, the right extensions, the mag on a stick, the bit of vac hose to get the plug started, the 12mm deep socket on 1/4" for the TMIC, the 10mm on 1/4 for the rubber balloons, the 8mm for the coil hold downs and the small - head screwdriver for the BPV lines. It's not rocket surgery after that...(cheers2)
As to what kind to get, I think guys spend too much time being homeboys for one brand or the other. NGK or Denso, either one. I run NGK's just because I've used that brand for many, many years and know what to expect. Make sure they are iridium tipped, however, and in the correct heat range and gapped properly.
As to heat range and gap, I would need to know what your mods are. Most people are going to one step colder out of impulse or because they think it is better. Frequently it is not. Typically the stock range is going to be best for most minor to mild mods, and gapped at .030-.032. Colder plugs are not warranted and are likely to carbon foul unless you are running an aftermarket tune with higher than stock boost levels or leaned out AFR's or unless you are running a catless dp/rp, IMHO. Others may differ with me on this point.
You must manually check plug gap on the new plugs or on your old ones if going in to check. Be very careful in regapping, as the iridium center electrode tip is very delicate and is easily damaged. Don't scrape it.
As to heat range and gap, I would need to know what your mods are. Most people are going to one step colder out of impulse or because they think it is better. Frequently it is not. Typically the stock range is going to be best for most minor to mild mods, and gapped at .030-.032. Colder plugs are not warranted and are likely to carbon foul unless you are running an aftermarket tune with higher than stock boost levels or leaned out AFR's or unless you are running a catless dp/rp, IMHO. Others may differ with me on this point.
You must manually check plug gap on the new plugs or on your old ones if going in to check. Be very careful in regapping, as the iridium center electrode tip is very delicate and is easily damaged. Don't scrape it.
I fouled my 1 step colder plugs when I uninstalled my AP and left the Denso's in there.
