Spark Plug Gap Question.

Boomyal

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Aug 16, 2003
Messages
12,072
If you have an ignition system that calls for the plugs to be gapped between .50-.60, and in fact they are gapped at .30, what would be the likely, noticeable symptoms at idle thru WOT?
 

ron7000

Banned
Joined
Jul 10, 2004
Messages
498
Re: Spark Plug Gap Question.

if any, slight loss of power but would only be noticable on a dyno. You would never notice it seat of the pants, especially in a boat.<br /><br />Ignition systems technically don't call for plugs do be gapped [greater] out to 0.060", they "allow" greater gaps.
 

f_inscreenname

Commander
Joined
Aug 23, 2001
Messages
2,591
Re: Spark Plug Gap Question.

About any motor I have dealt with in the past were 0.035 and I add .005 because of the pertronix kit
 

Boomyal

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Aug 16, 2003
Messages
12,072
Re: Spark Plug Gap Question.

Originally posted by ron7000:<br /> if any, slight loss of power but would only be noticable on a dyno. You would never notice it seat of the pants, especially in a boat.<br /><br />Ignition systems technically don't call for plugs do be gapped [greater] out to 0.060", they "allow" greater gaps.
Sounds good. Thanks all, I'll probably just leave them be then until such time as I have occassion or other reasons to pull the plugs.
 

Dunaruna

Admiral
Joined
May 2, 2003
Messages
6,027
Re: Spark Plug Gap Question.

It would effect mileage.<br /><br />Your talking about this fandangle new coil/ignition setup you are installing??<br /><br />You won't get the benefits of a bigger spark if you hobble the plugs.
 

Boomyal

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Aug 16, 2003
Messages
12,072
Re: Spark Plug Gap Question.

Originally posted by Dunaruna:<br /> Your talking about this fandangle new coil/ignition setup you are installing??
That's the one Aldo, pertronix II in the distrib and MSD 6a Multiple spark Capacative discharge w/ MSD blaster 2 coil for the big bang.<br /><br />I guess I should throw in my OEM Motocraft Platinums which are factory set at .55.
 

Buttanic

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Sep 25, 2003
Messages
711
Re: Spark Plug Gap Question.

Electricty generally follows the path of least resistance. If there is a place in the system where the spark can jump to that has less resistance than the gap at the plugs it will and the plug will misfire. The wider the plug gap the higher the possibility it will jump at a point of lower resistance.
 
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