Colder spark plugs with a stock tune?

[John Miller]

I want to replace my spark plugs, as I am chasing down a small issue. Eventually, a tune will probably be coming my way, and I would rather not change the spark plugs twice.

Are there any side effects to me running the colder NGK 6015 plugs on a stock tune?


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[shoblock]

Use the stock heat range, but check all plugs for .028" to .030" gap. These plugs will be good with or without a tune. Othere may weigh in on this one, but I believe a colder plug may carbon-up. Gap is very important.

 

[John Miller]

Thanks. Torrie at Unleashed tells me that the colder plugs are a good idea with tune, but I would certainly be open to other opinions ...


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[SHOdded]

Many folks are running the 6510's without an issue, so I wouldn't worry about using them WITH a tune. Not so good if running without a tune for an extended period of time. The other caveat I would have is that it is stock at 0.044 gap per NGK, so gap down slowly & carefully to the 0.030 area (or 0.028 if Torrie is using that).

The benefit of using stock plugs (SP534's) is that they are already pre-gapped at around the 0.030 area, so there's not much adjustment to make for the tune, which is a +.

 

[John Miller]

Are the 534s generally accepted for tuned vehicles, i.e. Do most folks feel it not absolutely necessary to change out to 6510s?


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[SHOdded]

Most do fine with the SP534's. Having a colder heat range plug like the 6510 allows you to run "hotter" tunes without putting more strain on the cooling system (a cooler TStat also helps here). Here's an explanation:
http://www.ngk.com/learning-center/article/207/i-have-slightly-modified-my-motor---do-i-need

"A good rule of thumb is, one Heat Range colder for every 75–100hp added. "

http://www.globaldenso.com/en/products/aftermarket/plug/basic_knowledge/heatrange/

bpd uses the 6510's on his hipo/hitq SHO, hope he chimes in

 

[John Miller]

So I'm reading that I can put new 534s in and know they'll likely be fine for a later tune (3 bar MAP and possibly thermostat as only other mods). That about right?


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[SHOdded]

Yes, but always verify gap is correct before you put the plugs in. If you use the "tuned" gap, it will run slightly richer until you put the tune on.

 

[John Miller]

Sorry to keep pestering, but aren't gaps for both .030? I know the owners manual calls for .030 - .033 ...


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[SHOdded]

Your tuner will tell you what gap they want the plugs to be (0.030 is popular). Stock, the 2010-14 plug gaps are supposed to be 0.033–0.037 inch, doesn't seem significant, but it is. In 2015, the stock plug gap changed to 0.030-0.033.

If you have a '15 and plan on using the factory plugs, don't. Put in a brand new set of SP534's with a confirmed gap. Factory plug gaps are famous for deviating from that recommended, and varying between one plug & another in the same vehicle.

 

[John Miller]

Interesting. I am going to put new plugs in now. Sounds like sp534s with a .030 gap will be good with both the stock tune and LIKELY the aftermarket tune.


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[SHOdded]

Yup!

 

[John Miller]

Good info, as always. Thanks to you and shoblock


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