OEM spark plug questions

[amalik]

Do our OEM spark plugs come pre-gapped (space between electrodes) or do you have to use a tool to gap them? I was discussing this with forum member nevada and we aren't positive.

also, i've seen the recommendation to use anti-size and dielectric grease on the plugs/boots... is this necessary or just a fail-safe?

 

[NateMob]

They come pregapped, and anti seize/dielectric grease is a good idea. I wouldn't drive to go get it though if i had everything else already and was ready to get started.

Good Luck

 

[res1eott]

I have found most plugs come pre-gapped, but you should be prudent and check them before you go to the trouble and put them in, just to be sure.

As for anti-seize and grease, I always put both on. Its definitely not required, but the anti-seize will make changing them in the future easier.

 

[NateMob]

I have found most plugs come pre-gapped, but you should be prudent and check them before you go to the trouble and put them in, just to be sure.

As for anti-seize and grease, I always put both on. Its definitely not required, but the anti-seize will make changing them in the future easier.

Do use a set of feeler gages for checking the gap since they are double electrodes? Can't get the cheap round "ramp" style in there.

 

[amalik]

for sure. thanks guys. how often do you guys replace spark plugs? it's been about 70-80k since my last change, I would say I'm due.

 

[Zulch_AW]

Denso or NGK?

2000 Limited 4x4

Thanks,

Zulch

 

[TheDurk]

I use NGK's (BKR5EKB-11)because a NAPA store is just down the street and the dealer is two towns away. If that were reversed, I would use Denso's(K16TR11)...both are OEM. Three of each came installed from the factory.

The NGK's and Denso's come pre-gapped (the 11 in the number indicates 1.1mm gap) but I check them anyway. Once in a while I find one needs adjustment so I recommend it. I do them every 30k like the book says. Use a wire-type feeler gauge only.

NGK recommends against anti-seize due to their tri-valent plating or some such so I stopped. At 30k change interval, this is not a problem. If I were leaving them in for 60k plus I would probably still use it. I use the dielectric grease but if I had to skip it once I would. If I had never used it, or was dealing with a new-to-me truck, I would make it a point to use it.

At 13 years and 160k, I have never had a misfire code.