Storm Chasing Ford

Get Motorcraft SP-515 plugs, and make sure mechanic puts anti-Sieze on it. You won't regret it!

MGD

Hi.

Wellsir, that's kinda a loaded question.

I opted for them a ways back. So far I've had no issues, but there are several things I learned:

- Quality control - seems a few of these get dropped a lot, Some gorilla at the factory I reckon, so you need to open each box at the counter and inspect them closely for cracks, etc ( that's why I don't order them online - I need the ol' Mark1 Eyeball ). You may need to sort through a bunch to find perfect ones.

- You MUST use new boots as the OEM boots will have deformed over time and will be too loose on the Champ's narrower, smooth ceramic.

- Gap to 0.045, use dielctric in the boots. NO need for hi-temp nickel A/S on the barrel, but it won't hurt. Just be SURE you use a VERY light coat - or it can migrate down and foul the plug tip. Do NOT just glop it on there, aight?

- Oh yeah - since they are now CAKE to R&R without fear of snapping them or the need fer a Lisle tol, I R&R mine every ~30K or so for peak efficiency. They come out like BUTTER. It is such a joy not having yer ***** migrate up beside yer ears doing as simple plug change!

I don't expect everyone to follow that overly-**** procedure though . But given the usual 60K interval for plug changes recommended on a 3V, I'm okay with it. Heck, folks are dumping perfectlyy Good Oil at 3K intervals!

Lastly - if yer at all unsure, just go with SP-515's. Just don't leave 'em in past 60K. Folks still break the second set.


MGD

Hongstertruck

Thank you MGD, you're "da man" thanks for taking your time with the tips.

Is the SP-515 plug original equipment came with the truck?

MGD

Good morning!

Thanks!

And no, SP-515's are the 3rd-generation design and are the currently spec'd plug for any replacement job. It's no longer recommended to install any previous gen plug ( they probably are no longer sold ).

Hongstertruck

That's exactly what I need to know and thank you again.

It's comfort to know, and I would not have any hesitation to use them since it's 3rd generation.

My dilemma is my truck has 66K miles. The truck is running awesome! (knock on wood!). Should I wait or should I replace them while they're still young?

MGD

Hi.

I'd do them now, as Ford changed the recommended interval to 60K a few years ago.

And while there are no guarantees, it appears the success rate goes up the sooner you change them.

Good luck!

Hongstertruck

OK thanks MGD.

Gr8ScottAZ

Just to throw this out there since you might be considering doing the spark plugs yourself. I have the Lisle tool that is being passed around to forum members (thanks to M1911) for the cost of shipping. I haven't had a request for it yet so it's still sitting in my garage. Let me know if you are interested in using it and I can ship it out and once you are done, you can pass it onto the next person who needs it.

Hongstertruck

Wow! What a nice service to M1911 Kudos!
It's so cold outside right now and the truck doesn't even fit inside the garage too long..

I'm going to wait till Spring, but definitely appreciate the offer very much.