Timbo Posted October 2, 2017 Share Posted October 2, 2017 Holy bankruptcy, Batman! When did spark plugs start costing $10 each?! My question is, do I have to run the plugs the dealer recommends, or can I run whatever I like (that fits the manufacturers requirements)? Many (many) years ago I read that spark plugs, unless physically damaged, don't actually go bad. If you clean them, they're good as new. Back then I had a really nifty spark plug cleaner you attached to an air compressor that use a non-conductive abrasive to clean the plug. It was great! Being the cheapskate that I am, I'm having a hard time coming to grips with $10 plugs. Assuming you do your own repairs / service like I do, what plugs are you folks running in your TC's? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
G B L Posted October 3, 2017 Share Posted October 3, 2017 (edited) These Plugs will be good for your Transit connect NGK 3403 G-Power Platinum Alloy Spark Plug TR55GP Edited October 3, 2017 by G B L Timbo 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timbo Posted October 3, 2017 Author Share Posted October 3, 2017 Thanks for the tip! Do spark plugs come in different lengths? The TC is the first car I've owned where the plugs are deep down inside a hole with a long, rubber plug that connects to them. This means the plugs have to be a particular length so the rubber boot at the top of the hole seat properly against the top to seal out water and debris. I'm don't mean to look a gift horse in the mouth, but I'm a little curious why these plugs are only $3.39 each instead of $10 each like the OEM plugs. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mrtn Posted October 4, 2017 Share Posted October 4, 2017 No need to buy OEM. You can always find a matching aftermarket plug, they're all pretty much the same in length, give it a millimeter here or there. The plugs are deep down in the hole for most (double) overhead cam engines. OVH are always in the side of the head, I think. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
G B L Posted October 4, 2017 Share Posted October 4, 2017 The length thread depth, electrode configuration is set when the combustion chamber is designed. The twin cam set up determines the style and location of the plug. The pricing is part cost and part coporate voodoo. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Timbo Posted October 5, 2017 Author Share Posted October 5, 2017 I picked up a set of Motorcraft SP-541A double platinum plugs. Only thing, they don't say Iridium anywhere on the box. They look just like the ones I have now, and the Ford website says that the SP-541A's are the correct plug for the 2010 TC, so I'm not going to worry about it too much. Just thought I'd mention it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mrtn Posted October 5, 2017 Share Posted October 5, 2017 Don't worry about it. Iridium is a platinum metal. Timbo 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.