DIY re-gap factory spark plugs

[obermd]

Those of use running at 0.035" are on the stock tune. If you're running any tune, Trifecta, or otherwise, don't go above 0.028". The tuners based their tunes on the setting listed in the Owner's manual.

[RedChevy]

Could somebody define 'spark blowout' for me?

[XtremeRevolution]

Could somebody define 'spark blowout' for me?

In simple terms, the spark plug does not have enough energy to maintain the electric arc it creates due to the pressure and airflow inside the cylinder, so it blows out. Pretty similar to a a candle that blows out due to wind. Depending on how strong the ignition coils are, making your spark plug gaps larger will eventually lead to spark blowout. That is, if you make them far too large. The end result is effectively a misfire.

[obermd]

In simple terms, the spark plug does not have enough energy to maintain the electric arc it creates due to the pressure and airflow inside the cylinder, so it blows out. Pretty similar to a a candle that blows out due to wind. Depending on how strong the ignition coils are, making your spark plug gaps larger will eventually lead to spark blowout. That is, if you make them far too large. The end result is effectively a misfire.

Isn't this usually at high RPM?

[chevycruze2012]

EcoCruzer...From my experience id atleast put antiseize grease on the threads to prevent them from seizing to the block and causing potential damgage. Just put a small amount on the threads, dont need alot =]. Hope this helps.

[kabamaz]

Just regapped the NGK's that came stock to .035. I am running an Injen CAI & MagnaFlow dual exhausts.
What a difference in pickup & acceleration.
I have 45K on the car & will see if there is a mpg difference.
Just the difference in performance is worth the difference.
The engine is running cooler without all the stock intake plumbing.
Need the air in Arizona.

[obermd]

Just regapped the NGK's that came stock to .035. I am running an Injen CAI & MagnaFlow dual exhausts.
What a difference in pickup & acceleration.
I have 45K on the car & will see if there is a mpg difference.
Just the difference in performance is worth the difference.
The engine is running cooler without all the stock intake plumbing.
Need the air in Arizona.

You may see some MPG improvement based solely on the fact that you can stay in a higher gear when going uphill and lower RPM up shifts while accelerating.

[silverWS.6]

Just got back in from doing this and WOW! The sparkplugs were at like .018-.022! I set them all at .035 and the loud ticking at engine startup went down quite a bit, maybe I'm just delusional on that but I'm sure it'll have better response now.

I was also surprised that it had NGK's as opposed to a bosch set, I was happy about that as I like to run NGK's in my other vehicles too.

[XtremeRevolution]

Just got back in from doing this and WOW! The sparkplugs were at like .018-.022! I set them all at .035 and the loud ticking at engine startup went down quite a bit, maybe I'm just delusional on that but I'm sure it'll have better response now.

I was also surprised that it had NGK's as opposed to a bosch set, I was happy about that as I like to run NGK's in my other vehicles too.

Those were severely under-gapped. I'm glad you did this! Let us know how your fuel economy changes.

Was this the 1.8L or 1.4L Turbo engine?

[silverWS.6]

Those were severely under-gapped. I'm glad you did this! Let us know how your fuel economy changes.

Was this the 1.8L or 1.4L Turbo engine?

Its the 1.4L