Hi guys,

Just picked up 6 NGK Laser Platinum plugs for the Max, and 5 of the 6 boxes say "Do not adjust spark plug gap due to possible damage to the center electrode", and one says "Gap plug to engine specs".

SHOULD these plugs be pre-gapped? I know that two of them were way off the .044 called for - one was about .035.

Need to know so I can either take these back or gap them so I can get rid of my spark knock this weekend!

Thanks,

Jack

 

Regardless of whether or not the package says the plugs are pregapped or not you always check them, as you have all ready done, and then gap them to the proper specification for your car. I would not worry about damaging the electrode unless you feel you're a bit clumsy.

 

I probably should, but I never check them before I install them.

 

I always check and adjust the gap as needed. If your really worried about it, go to NGK's homepage and send them a question. I just did that the other day and they actually answered back within 24 hours.

 

NEITHER DID I ON MY LAST INSTALL

 

I see youre pretty excited about that. I never gap mine, usually im afraid that im going to break the electrode since theyre so small on the platinum and iridium plugs. i always make sure to gap them on coppers or something with a bigger electrode though

 

sorry i work w/ CAD, so i usually work in caps

 

Larger by volume, but not by mass. You probably knew that though, since you mentioned it.

 

If you're doing it right, you never touch the electrode while you're setting the gap anyway. Only bend the arm. Don't ever lever against the electrode. I never install a plug without checking its gap.

 

Here's NGK's reply:

"For these plugs they should already be factory set to 1.1mm (.044") and
will not require adjustment prior to installing. I would suspect you are
probably usin a coin style gapping tool which is not very accurate when
checking the gap on fine wire plugs. My recommendation would be to
install the plugs as is and just be sure they are all at the same gap
prior to installation. Hope this helps, thank you."

He was right, I was using the coin style to check. I'll spring for a wire gauge now, I suppose.

Jack

 

you touch the electrode with your feeler gauge, you certainly arent prying on it. if you DONT touch it, youre eyeballing it and that = FAIL

 

Hence the -11 in the P/N.

 

whats a good website for racing spark plugs for maxima's?

 

Racing spark plugs? Just use NGK's. Anything else is a waste of money in a Maxima.

/endthread.

 

http://www.kalecoauto.com/

 

didnt really find much in this website..

 

Of course you have to touch the electrode while measuring the gap (duh.) Just don't touch the electrode while adjusting the gap. Measuring and adjusting are not the same thing. Many people widen the gap by just sticking the gauge in between the electrode and the arm and twisting it to open up the gap. I'm saying that's wrong. Don't ever do it that way.

Also, FWIW, "racing" plugs (I'm interpreting that as "iridium plugs" are a waste of money unless you're truly racing, using high boost or nitrous, which significantly increases the heat in the cylinder. For pretty much all other occasions, good old NGK platinum plugs off the shelf from the parts store are your best bet. (<~~~ my opinion, of course...all usual disclaimers...)

 

Be carefull they are delicate, they also can be a couple thousands off, about 2 or 3 without any ill affects

 

You need to get this: http://kalecoauto.com/index.php?main...&products_id=6
It's the first mod everyone does to their Maxima. Huge improvement.

 

Hilarious