Well to me "more efficiently" is the same as better gas mileage (you know what a mis-fire is, correct?). Sounds like you made a post and wanted only responses that support your theory. Good luck on your 5.4 that you dont change your plugs on. Im out.

 

That's exactly what I was thinking too^

 

it preventative maintenance...

 

Spark plug electrodes wear down over time. So no matter what you are going to want to pull them.... Whether you want to try and clean, flatten and regap the old ones, or just pop in some new ones for a couple bucks is your call.

Personally I don't see the logic in why you wouldn't put in new ones if you are already in there and they are so cheap. Heck, it's easier and faster to replace them then try to recondition the old ones.

 

They are easier to change with fewer miles. And well worth it to switch to the one-piece ones early on, even if nothing is wrong with the old ones. When you do get a misfire, you'll be glad you're pulling the new plugs instead of breaking off the old ones.

 

I'll just be waiting to see your post, asking how in the hell you are going to get 200k mile plugs out, when you get your misfire.
You can rent the lisle tool from most parts stores. Go get a little bit of your first communion money, and just change them. It's not that hard of a job, especially for a seasoned mechanic like yourself.

 

This is why you should replace your plugs.


It made a huge difference when I did mine.

 

...but wouldn't you rather just try cleaning them, then, cram them back in your engine to get a couple more miles out of them, only to develop a misfire, and do it all over again?

 

Has anyone recorded their MPG before and after changing the plugs?

 

I went from 13-13.5 mpg to 13.75-14.5 mpg I would say. I check it every fill up. I noticed a big difference in power and noise level of the engine.