I'm not one to venture away from OEM recommendations, but I got the itch to try something different this time, and against my better judgement I installed NGK Ruthenium spark plugs in my Pat (3 months ago at 90K). They cost about $8 each via mail order, about 3x the cost of the conventional plugs. There is no cost savings going to these plugs, which should last the same as 3 sets of conventional plugs. No labor $ savings if you DIY. Time savings is negligible due to ease to replace our plugs.
Lets quell some myths to start off. ALL plugs are copper core, including these Rutheniums. Standard plug electrodes are nickel, not copper, so squash that idea that the standard plugs move electricity significantly better at less resistance. In fact, fine wire plugs have less resistance than conventional electrodes ("easier firing, but not significant). Other manufacturers using the GEMA engine install iridiums at the factory, so the idea our engines were designed around the standard "copper core" plug doesn't hold water either. Saving $20 per car is what FCA was achieving.
I participated in some technical discussions on the net regarding plugs (I know, yada yada yada). It seems that fine wire plugs DO produce better ignition of fuel. The gap remains unchanged the life of the plug. Some suggest that the widening gap of worn "copper" plugs (.055 on mine at 30K) make the coils work harder. Beyond that, I don't think there are any other advantages. Today's engines are so highly computer adjusted that I do NOT expect any mpg gains nor any noticeable performance (HP) gains. "Maybe" the ignition system (coils, etc.) might enjoy a less stressed life and "maybe" the engine will run a teeny bit cleaner, more efficient (maybe less load on catalytic converters???).
Just sharing what I did. Pat is running wonderfully. Be aware that counterfeit NGK and Denso plugs are becoming rampant. Be wary of purchasing from other than authorized dealers.
NGK Ruthenium sales spiel: Ruthenium HX™ Spark Plugs | NGK Spark Plugs , and Ruthenium Spark Plugs
Wishing everyone peace and good health during these troubling times.
Lets quell some myths to start off. ALL plugs are copper core, including these Rutheniums. Standard plug electrodes are nickel, not copper, so squash that idea that the standard plugs move electricity significantly better at less resistance. In fact, fine wire plugs have less resistance than conventional electrodes ("easier firing, but not significant). Other manufacturers using the GEMA engine install iridiums at the factory, so the idea our engines were designed around the standard "copper core" plug doesn't hold water either. Saving $20 per car is what FCA was achieving.
I participated in some technical discussions on the net regarding plugs (I know, yada yada yada). It seems that fine wire plugs DO produce better ignition of fuel. The gap remains unchanged the life of the plug. Some suggest that the widening gap of worn "copper" plugs (.055 on mine at 30K) make the coils work harder. Beyond that, I don't think there are any other advantages. Today's engines are so highly computer adjusted that I do NOT expect any mpg gains nor any noticeable performance (HP) gains. "Maybe" the ignition system (coils, etc.) might enjoy a less stressed life and "maybe" the engine will run a teeny bit cleaner, more efficient (maybe less load on catalytic converters???).
Just sharing what I did. Pat is running wonderfully. Be aware that counterfeit NGK and Denso plugs are becoming rampant. Be wary of purchasing from other than authorized dealers.
NGK Ruthenium sales spiel: Ruthenium HX™ Spark Plugs | NGK Spark Plugs , and Ruthenium Spark Plugs
Wishing everyone peace and good health during these troubling times.
