Spark Plugs!

[Accord Man]

Originally posted by BlackDeuceCoupe
Opinions are like A-holes, everyone has one...

As you probably know, a number of conductive materials may be used in spark plugs. Silver is the best electrical conductor used in spark plugs, followed by Copper and Platinum [the jury is still out on Iridiums]. While this suggests that the durability and quality of the plugs follows in this order, the melting points of the metals are Platinum at 1773C/3223F, Copper at 1083C/1981F, and Silver at 960C/1760F.

The high melting point of Platinum electrodes allow them to be designed thinner, with a smaller surface area than that of the other materials. The electrical ineffiency of Platinum requires more arc-over voltage thereby increasinging the incidence of misfire. Furthermore, Platinum electrodes operate at a higher temperature. While this burns off carbon or hydrocarbon contamination common in carbureted vintage cars, it can cause detonation in newer lean-burning fuel-effecient cars.

The bottom line is: the good thing about Platinum plugs is they usually last much longer than its Copper or Silver counterparts. However, make no mistake about it --- copper is the best value in spark plugs. You just have to change them more often.

If you drive a rich-running, oil-burning sh!tbox, Platinum is the fix. If Granda wants to put plugs in his Buick that will last longer than he will, Platinum is the answer. For everyone else, go the Copper-core route...

You seem to be well informed on the matter,

& that was very well explained!