Question about sparkplugs....

[calvinbiss]

I drive a 97 Landcruiser, and it seems to take a long time to start. My friend suggested that i change the spark plugs. So, i have a couple questions:

Is there a real difference between normal sprakplugs, platinum ones, and split-fires? If so, whats the best deal?
Do you think that changing the sparkplugs will help the starting issue?

Thanks

 

[bunker]

In my experience, platinum plugs tend to last longer than normal and all I've heard about the splitfires is that they are an overpriced gimmick.

 

[MrBond]

They make all kinds of claims about the split/tri/quadfire plugs, but honestly I'm not sure how true they are. New plugs will help your mileage a little, I usually use platinum plugs just because they last longer.

As far as starting hard, what exactly does the truck do? Does it turn over many times before starting finally? Does it turn over slowly? Start, then sputter and stall?

 

[calvinbiss]

its not starting and dying. i just have to hold the key in the start postion for a few seconds longer than i have on the rest of my cars. its just taking a bit to start. someone once told me that since its a straight 6, it takes longer to stat becuase of some kind of torque issue, but i have never believed that. i am worried becuase with winter coming, i might have serious problems starting.

how long are sprak plugs supposed to last, normally?

 

[PsychoAndy]

My dad went 100,000 miles on the OEM's mopar put in 8 years ago.

As far as plugs go, they should last a while before they need replacement.

If your engine is running fine, then its not really a matter of the plugs, because if all cylnders are firing in the correct order, then all the plugs should be fine. My mechanic uses one of those IR thermometers to check each plug. If theres a massive temp difference and one plug is cooler than the other, he knows that cylnder isnt firing. At least I think thats what he said.

I spent a good 5 seconds cranking me engine, I replaced my battery under warranty and its running just fine now.

-PAB

 

[iamwiz82]

my I6 starts no slower than my I4

 

[Bluefront]

There's a bunch of conflicting info about spark plugs floating around. It's probably best to use the brand and type that came with the vehicle. Your starting problem is probably something other than the plugs.

That being said, my personal favorite plug is NGK. I've used it on motorcycles and cars for many years. You can find a type and heat range for everything. They will usually outlast and out-perform any other brand. IMHO...that is.

As far as platinum vs standard plugs go....platinum plugs will usually last 2-3 times longer. However they have a tendency to foul easier, particularly in colder temperatures. I use standard plugs, and check or replace them every 25k or so. My pickup has gone 70k on std NGK plugs.

Heh...I can tell you a current horror story about Bosch platinums. Don't use then in your late model Maxima(came with NGKs)...the type with six coils (no plug wires). Apparently the Bosch plugs require more current to fire than the coils can deliver. The current tends to back up through the harness...can shut-down the ECU when you step on the throttle hard. This can burn out the coil and/or the ECU. Nice huh?

 

[CraigRT]

for my car, they recommend champion regular plugs, no special platinum crap or anything fancy.. champions are the best. but for the maxima. they recommend platinum tip.
find out what kind of plugs are in there already, and replace them with the same kind, or something similar.

 

[Quixfire]

I agree with Bluefront, most likey it isn't the spark plugs.

What we need to know is this a cold or warm engine condition?

Does it run rough after it starts? Has you fuel economy gone down, less miles between fill ups? I

f this only happens when the engine is cold and run fine after it warmed up, then you engine is running too lean. Look for a vacuum leak, low fuel pressure/volume, or possilbe a sensor out of range.

But changing your spark plugs can't hurt neither.

Quixfire