Spark plug gap question...

[Silver Bullet]

I pulled out my front spark plug yesterday after about 30,000 miles "Motorcraft Double Platinums", and when I installed them I set the gap to (.042). Well... after inspection I was astounded to find out that they are now at .050!! I plan on replacing them in the near future, but I am wondering how much my spark plug gap being out of spec that much could affect my cars performance? Could this result in bad gas mileage?

headbang I have noticed my car is getting poor gas mileage lately

<small>[ May 30, 2003, 08:17 PM: Message edited by: Silver Bullet ]</small>

 

[sdpatt]

I'm surprised at the rate of the gap increase. The AGSP32PP plugs are ususally gapped no larger than the .050" even after the usual 60,000 miles. Are you sure you have the double platinum plugs identified above?

The larger gap is not so much a problem for gas mileage, but could result in a misfire and higher emissions output at conditions that an otherwise normally gapped plug would handle with the usual spark event.

Verify the plug model and replace them when you get the chance. They should last for 60,000 miles and still be in spec.