Why Spark Plugs Are So Important To Engines？

Have you ever wondered Why spark plugs are so important to engines? Why they are overhyped? well, if you are curious to know, read on to know the real in-toto of this precious engine component.

What Do Spark Plugs Do In An Engine?

The sparks that ignite the fuel/air mixture and cause the explosion that is necessary to power your engine is supplied by your spark plugs. In addition, these uncomplicated connectors produce an arc of electricity between two leads that are not in contact with each other but are close enough for current to flow through.

Types Of Engines Using Spark Plugs

Automotive Engines

They are what make gasoline powered trucks and cars to operate smoothly by igniting the air/fuel mixture in the internal combustion engine of your vehicle.

Marine Engines

It helps to ignite the fuel mixture and propel watercraft in outboard motors and other inbound motors.

Aircraft Engines

Light aircraft and piston engines depend on spark plugs for ignition to ensure safety during flight.

Racing Engines

High performance and racing engines rely on spark plugs for reliable ignition for them to give maximum performance.

Industrial Engines

Engines of portable power generators and gas powered pumps depend on spark plugs to operate well.

Benefits Of Sparks Plugs In Engines

• Improve your engine fuel efficiency
• Smoother engine operation
• Reduce emission in your engine
• Quicker start of your engine
• Longer lifespan of your engine
• Consistent production of optimal performance
• Prevents engine damage
• Smoother engine idling
• Saves time in the long run
• Installing new spark plugs will help you diagnose issues more accurately.

How Do I Know I Need To Replace My Engine Spark Plugs?

You may need to replace your engine spark plugs if you notice the following:

1. Engine Misfires: You’ll notice a sputtering sound, violent shaking, and there will be a sudden loss of power in your engine.
2. Poor Gas Mileage: When you observe your gas does not last up to the mileage it last before, it may be due to deteriorated spark plug.
3. Trouble Starting Your Engine: You’ll observe that your spark plugs are always experiencing difficulties when it comes to delivering the spark that is necessary to power your engine.
4. Slow Acceleration: Once you notice your engine is not as responsive as the way it used to be, that means it’s your spark plug that is delaying. This can also mean that your spark plug needs to be replaced.
5. Rough Idling: Listen attentively to find out if you’ll hear noises like rattling, pinging or knocking sounds in your engine. If you hear it, you might need to replace your spark plugs.

Consequences Of Using Inferior Spark Plugs In Your Engine 

If you use inferior spark plugs for your engines, it will have various negative impacts on them. Some of which include:

1. Poor engine performance
2. Increased fuel consumption
3. Erratic performance and increased exhaust emissions
4. It will be more difficult to start your engine especially if the weather is cold
5. Shorter lifespan of the spark plug
6. It’ll destroy your catalytic converter
7. You’ll get “Check engine light”

How To Select Quality Spark Plugs For Your Engine

To select a quality spark plug for your engine and not make a mistake, the best way to approach it is to check your owner’s manual guide. For instance, in your owner’s manual guide, if you discover that silver spark plug is recommended for your engine, do not downgrade to platinum spark plug.  The reason is that you’ll have poor engine performance if you downgrade to another type of spark plug. Nevertheless, here are other ways that can guarantee quality and befitting spark plug for your engine:

Engine Compatibility: Select spark plugs that correspond with your engine to minimize engine misfire or damage.

Heat Range: Watchout for the spark plug heat range because it has to match your engine’s heat range requirements. If the heat range is too hot it’ll lead to pre-ignition, if it’s too cold, it’ll lead to fouling.

Gap Size: Be conscious of the spark plug gap because the gap between the central and ground electrode can affect the spark’s strength.

Brand Reputation: Go for brands with goodwill for quality and reliability.

Research Forums And Read Reviews: Read reviews and consult forums to see what professionals recommend for your type of engine.

Examine Your Driving Needs: Buy high quality spark plugs for better performance and durability if you often drive in harsh environments.

Material: As you know that spark plugs material differ and will influence the performance of your engine. Check the brief table below:

Spark Plugs Lifespan

Spark plugs lifespan varies based on the type of materials they are manufactured from and the conditions they operate on. Here’s a quick overview:

Below factors will influence the lifespan of your spark plugs negatively:

• Poor engine maintenance
• Aggressive driving
• Poor fuel quality
• Oil leaks

How To Maintain Engine Spark Plugs

Here is a tip on how y0u can always keep your spark plug clean:

1. Remove and inspect your spark plugs to be sure they are free from build ups.
2. Clean your spark plug with spark plug cleaner according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
3. Reinstall the spark plugs and tighten it.
4. Make sure the gap is between 0.020 and 0.060. If it’s not, adjust it.

FAQ

How Much Does Spark Plug Replacement Cost?

Spark plug replacement cost depends on the complexity of your engine, the average labor cost for v6 to v8 ranges from $40-$350. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the spark plug is one integral part in the internal combustion engine. It renders ignition and spark duties in the combustion engine, and without it your engine cannot be powered.