Which spark plugs to choose. Comparison and selection of spark plugs What are car plugs

An article about spark plugs for a car engine - varieties, selection criteria.

Engine operation is largely dependent on spark plugs, and the performance of the latter depends on the manufacturer and manufacturing technology. The rating of spark plugs is most often led by recognized market leaders like Bosch, Denso, Beru and some others. These companies supply their products to auto concerns, therefore they strictly monitor the quality and adherence to technology.

Spark plugs - varieties and features

The main importance when choosing is the material from which the electrodes are made, as well as their number.

According to the number of sparking devices, spark plugs are divided into two- and multi-electrode (plus plasma-prechamber, which is a novelty on the market).

Two-electrode

They have main (central) and side electrodes. Candles of this type are the classic variety. At start-up, a spark is formed between the electrodes, which ignites the fuel mixture.

Multi-electrode

In addition to the central one, they have two or more side sparking devices. The principle of operation is the same, but the design allows for the stabilization of the spark formation and the operation of the propulsion system.

Plasma-prechamber

Such candles appeared on the auto parts market around 2000 and still provoke controversy. Neither experts nor ordinary motorists have come to a consensus about what this novelty is - either another step towards increasing efficiency, or a useless attempt at improvement.
Prechamber candles differ from traditional ones in that the role of the side electrode is played by the body of the product, equipped with a special heat-resistant nozzle. It is with its help that the spark is formed.
But despite this improvement, the best spark plugs, according to ratings and consumer reviews, are still traditional electrode.

Classification by material of manufacture of the electrode

Copper / Nickel

The main characteristics of spark plugs are quality and budget. Of course, in terms of operating parameters, the products are far from those that will be discussed below, but for their own price segment they have decent readings. On average, a copper electrode spark plug is enough for 20-30 thousand kilometers, after which it needs to be replaced.

Platinum (sometimes made from other precious metals)

The electrodes of the products are platinum-coated, which increases their service life and improves their quality. Such a candle is designed for a mileage of 50 thousand km.

Iridium

The resource is up to 100 thousand km, and the quality indicators are many times better than those of the previous options. But the cost of the product is corresponding.

Ranking of the best spark plugs

The market leaders have been defined for a long time. The results of tests, consumer votes, expert opinions sometimes differ, but the top positions of the ratings are almost always occupied by the same brands.

1. Bosch

The company's products can be described in two words - German quality. It is not for nothing that the brand is confidently leading in all the top collections of spark plugs. Such cars as Fiat, Audi, Toyota, Mitsubishi and others are equipped with Bosch products. The firm provides a considerable choice, but some models are very popular.
Which spark plugs are better and what are their features?

Model Bosch WR7DP

Number of electrodes: 2.
Cover material: platinum.
Pros:

• stable operation even with a low battery charge;
• high indicator of environmental friendliness,
• long service life (about 60 thousand km of run);
• good performance when working with HBO;
• versatility (the model is compatible with most cars, including domestic production).

Minuses:

• high price.

Model Bosch FR7DC +

Coating material: yttrium.
Pros:

• the resource is higher than that of other budget options;
• low cost;
• increased resistance to spark damage.

Minuses:

• sensitivity to poor quality fuels.

2. Denso

Another undoubted market leader focusing on the latest technology.

Denso PK20PR-P8

Number of electrodes: 2.
Cover material: platinum.
Pros:

• low cost in comparison with other platinum products;
• long service life;
• versatility (candles are suitable for most cars, including models that have been discontinued);
• on high revs there is an effective self-cleaning process;
• structural elements have high quality characteristics.

Minuses:

• intense carbon deposits when idling;
• not the best way for installation on a car with LPG.

Model Denso K20TXR

Number of electrodes: more than 2.
Coating material: nickel.
Pros:

• stable functioning;
• resistance to spark damage;
• ideal value for money;
• increased resistance to oxidation.

Minuses:

• not the best option for installation on a car running on gas.

3. NGK

Global sales exceed 450 million and continue to grow. The company supplies its products to car factories such as Ferrari, Volvo, BMW, Volkswagen, etc.

Model NGK BKR6EIX

Number of electrodes: 2.
Coating material: iridium.
Pros:

• long service life (up to 50 thousand kilometers and more);
• stable operation even with a low battery charge;
• increased resistance of the central electrode insulator to damage.

Minuses:

• high price;
• increased sensitivity to fuel quality.

Model NGK BUR6ET

Number of electrodes: more than 2.
Coating material: nickel.
Pros:

• corrosion resistance;
• adequate cost;
• stable operation at both high and low rpm;
• profitability;
• a good percentage of power increase in comparison with analogues;
• resistance to low quality fuels.

Minuses:

• low environmental friendliness.

To the question "Which spark plugs are best for the engine?" it is safe to say that NGK. Their peculiarity lies in the nickel plating and an acceptable price taking into account the quality. Nickel has excellent protective properties, so the elements of the candles are minimally susceptible to various corrosion and damage.

4. Brisk

The brand has several highly specialized lines. For example, the Classic range is designed to be combined with carburetor engines while Silver is ideally suited to gas vehicles.

Model Brisk Premium LOR15LGS

Number of electrodes: 5.
Pros:

• long service life (from 50 thousand km of run);
• profitability;
• stable operation in all conditions thanks to four side electrodes;
• high power indicator;
• resistance to low quality fuels.

Minuses:

• high cost (this is one of the most expensive spark plugs).

5. Champion

Completes such car brands as Suzuki, Jaguar, Alfa Romeo.

Model Champion RN9YCC4

Number of electrodes: 2.
The electrodes have a copper core.
Pros:

• more stable work in comparison with analogs;
• a good indicator of economy when working at high speeds,
• high level of environmental friendliness.

Minuses:

• overpriced;
• unstable operation at low speeds;
• compatibility with a limited number of vehicles.

6. Beru

The company's products are distinguished by quality and good performance characteristics, although in some points it loses to the "masters".

Model Beru Ultra-X79

Number of electrodes: 4.
Pros:

• The optimum ratio of price and quality;
• high level of environmental friendliness;
• stable operation in cars both on petrol fuel and on gas;
• high environmental friendliness;
• stable spark even with heavy soot.

Minuses:

• low percentage of power increase with an open throttle valve.

What spark plugs are best for a gas engine

The peculiarity of the gas is that its combustion temperature is slightly higher. This provokes intense formation of carbon deposits and the appearance of oxides on the electrodes. Therefore, for gas vehicles, it is recommended to install products with platinum or iridium sparking devices.

When used on machines with LPG nice results showed:

• Denso Iridium IW20;
• NGK LPG Laser LineN2;
• Bosch Platinum WR7DP.

Conclusion

The most important thing when choosing spark plugs for an engine is not to buy a fake. Handicraftsmen throw into the market a huge amount of counterfeit products of the lowest quality. Therefore, when buying candles, you should pay attention to the reputation of the outlet, as well as check the part and packaging for belonging to the original.

Very rarely, motorists pay due attention to spark plugs, even when carrying out Maintenance... Only in the event of a breakdown, the suspicion immediately falls on the candles. After several attempts to revive the old candles, car owners come to the conclusion that they need to be replaced. The question then becomes which spark plugs are better?

Spark plugs are usually selected based on two main parameters: the glow number and the size of the plug itself. Which candles are suitable for a particular car engine is usually indicated in the owner's manual. And it is worthwhile to select candles only according to the documentation for your car. By geometrical dimensions usually everything is clear. A candle of an unsuitable small or large size simply will not fit into its seat, and if it is short, then the electrodes will not reach the combustion chamber, and the fuel and air mixture will not detonate. Of all the brands of candles, it is best to choose those with an average cost.

Be sure to watch the video:

You should dwell on the second parameter - the incandescence number. Many do not know what it means, and the incandescence number is the parameter responsible for temperature regime spark plug operation. The higher this parameter, the higher the temperatures the candle can function. Thus, it is possible to understand which spark plugs are better. For example, in sports engines or racing cars it is necessary to install only spark plugs with the highest heat rating. Very often, these cars run at high revs, and the engine power in sports cars is much more than in conventional cars. Therefore, when purchasing a similar vehicle, it is best to choose the appropriate spark plugs.

Spark plugs are as follows:

• Single electrode spark plugs.
• Multi-electrode spark plugs.
• Candles in designs dominated by precious metals.

Candles with one electrode

These spark plugs are the most common variant of this product. The most popular Japanese single-electrode plugs. They are simple in design and therefore not overpriced. The upper part of the candle is made of ceramics, and at the bottom there is a metal body with a thread, thanks to which the candle, without much effort, is screwed into the body. To improve contact, the spark plug must be tightened with a special wrench.

Two electrodes provide the ignition spark. Both the center and side electrodes are usually the same size (2.5 mm), but some manufacturers prefer to make them different. If the side or main electrode is slightly thinner, it will create a better spark and increase the motor power. Since the production of the first single electrode spark plugs, changes have only been made to the diameter and length of the lower metal part. The material from which the electrodes are made has also changed, now they are usually made of copper.

Single electrode spark plugs are the most economical option as their prices are very affordable. But even the most expensive brand of such a plug has a short service life and cannot allow the full potential of a car engine to be revealed. Such candles are suitable for a very large number of cars.

Candles with different numbers of electrodes

The main quality of multi-electrode spark plugs is their long service life. This is ensured by the fact that several side electrodes are connected to the central electrode at once. During operation, if carbon deposits appear on one of the electrodes, the spark will spread to the adjacent one and the candle will continue to function properly. Plugs with a similar design are capable of providing high-quality detonation of the fuel and air mixture in the engine cylinders. Also, multi-electrode spark plugs allow the engine to deliver more power. The cost of an automotive spark plug with multiple electrodes is not much higher than the cost of a single electrode spark plug.

Spark plugs with added precious metals

The latter category represents a new generation of automotive spark plug products that incorporate precious materials. And now the demand is high for the best candles with iridium or platinum electrodes. It is logical to clarify that the cost of such candles is immeasurably high, but quality, reliability and a long service life can be put in direct proportion to the price.

The main advantages of spark plugs made of expensive metals, which will help you to quickly select the required products:

• Extremely long service life. This is because iridium is one of the strongest metals on earth and can withstand high temperatures. Engine operation, even at high speeds and for a long time, is not capable of causing damage to the iridium spark plugs.
• Improving the reliability of the engine. Correctly set gap between the electrodes and the useful qualities of precious metals allow you to normalize the operation of the motor and improve its dynamics.
• The correct ignition spark can reduce fuel consumption, which creates a certain amount of economy.

The finest thin electrodes, coated with a thin layer of iridium or platinum, provide a spark of power unmatched by conventional car candles ignition. Platinum and iridium, among the metals, have the longest lifespan. Also, electrodes made of such metals are capable of self-cleaning. The spark arising on the side of the main electrode removes all carbon deposits, which increases the life of such a spark plug several times.

How to make a choice

In order to decide and find out which spark plugs are better and choose the most suitable ones, you first need to find out what requirements are imposed on the spark plugs for your car. You should not put expensive candles made of an alloy of iridium and platinum in Soviet cars... In old engines, such candles will not bring the expected result, and at a price they will cost as much as a third of the engine. Most inexpensive candle brands are better suited for a domestic manufacturer. The choice can focus on both single-electrode and multi-electrode plugs. But if a sports car with a large engine, then the choice should be stopped on candles with the addition of precious metals.

In the VAZ-2114 ignition system, the candles are in the leading place, because it depends on them how the engine starts after turning the ignition key. Therefore, it is to this detail, like no other, that much more attention should be paid during the selection. And in this article we will tell you in detail about the design of the spark plug for the VAZ-2114, as well as how to correctly approach its choice.

Video about the choice of spark plugs for an injection engine

Features and design of the VAZ-2114 spark plug

Bosch spark plugs with white carbon removed from the VAZ-2114

Spark plugs for VAZ cars, and VAZ-2114 in particular, do not differ from each other, they are exactly the same, receiving a signal in 24 Sq. generate a spark, thereby igniting the fuel in the combustion chamber. However, the main and most important structural element in each candle will be the central electrode, because exactly how it will ensure the ignition of the fuel at a certain stage of start-up.

The electrode must be made of heat-resistant, ductile and corrosion-resistant material.

Usually it is made from all kinds of nickel alloys, however, models with a "more expensive" price tag, in order to increase efficiency, may contain palladium, copper, iridium, platinum, silver and even gold. All this, according to the manufacturers, was created for easy launch and the acquisition of a candle of individual properties.

When to change candles?

If you want to change the spark plugs, then this issue should be approached very carefully and carefully, because the efficiency of their work, the total fuel consumption and the transmitted power from the engine to the wheels depend on this choice.

• Numerous tests show that correctly selected plugs for a certain type of engine not only extend its overall resource, but also raise its performance.

Breakdown on the spark plug insulator

The manual from the VAZ-2114 states that the spark plugs must be changed every 30,000 kilometers of run , because after that, the wear of the electrodes of the factory spark plugs changes and the car behaves completely differently on the road, due to an increase in fuel consumption and a decrease in power.

The condition of the spark plug and the ignition system can be said with confidence by its outward appearance, depending on the state of the electrode (the presence of carbon deposits, soot, color - approx.).

Visual inspection of candles

This table will help you find out roughly what carbon deposits are:

Candles with different types of carbon deposits

What is better to put spark plugs on the VAZ-2114 (survey)?

Today, the choice of spark plugs is very large, and it is not so easy to choose the ones that need to be installed. On most forums, owners of VAZ-2114 cars are most often advised by manufacturers: NGK, Finwhale Champion Brisk Premium Bosch Platinum, DENSO.

Remember that the best spark and the greatest amount of heat will be given by the candle with the thinnest electrode, the size 0,4-0,8 mm, and they are made, as a rule, of alloys of iridium, platinum, palladium and gold.

Also, the situation with a spark that has platinum, silver or gold plating on its case is the best. For comparison, the "stock" candle from "DVRM" has a thickness of 2,5 mm, when, as on imported counterparts, it barely exceeds 0,6-0,8 mm, so it's not worth talking about any competition here.

Video on how not to run into fake candles

Pay special attention to the integrity of the packaging, as well as to the value of the goods, because counterfeits, which are quite common today, can be sold at a lower price than the average market price. Therefore, always take each candle out of its individual box and inspect it more closely.

As a rule, many motorists simply forget about spark plugs. However, after the engine starts to junk (rpm float, etc.), it becomes necessary to replace the spark plugs. Some people try to clean and dry them first, but these measures will only be a waste of time. At the same time, buying new candles in the store, many do not delve into the specifics of the products.

By what parameters to choose spark plugs

Traditionally, 2 indicators come to the fore:

1. Heat number;
2. Candle dimensions.

1. Heat number

First, you need to familiarize yourself with the manufacturer's recommendations set out in the instructions for the car and only then buy. The very same heating number means operating modes (thermal). Candles with a low glow number overheat quickly, and a high one indicates that the candle can operate at high temperatures (forced power units). The purchase of candles with a high number is recommended only for those who drive very aggressively or live in the northern regions.

2. Dimensions of the candle

Everything is much simpler here - you need to look at the instructions and buy candles of the size indicated there. If they are larger, the electrodes will stick out, which is fraught with pistons hitting them and further overhaul motor. If the candles are small, the electrode will not reach the combustion chamber, and it will not work to install such a candle.

Spark plug types

Most of the candles that are installed in car engines are divided into 4 large groups:

1. Standard;
2. Multi-electrode type;
3. Plasma-prechamber;
4. Platinum and iridium.

Video: Which spark plugs are better

1. Standard

This is the most common and popular group. Such candles have been seen by any motorist. They are distinguished by a ceramic body and a glass made of metal. This type of candles has a pair of electrodes - one central, and the second bends around it from the side and from above. The diameter and width of the electrodes reaches 2.5 mm.

This is what standard spark plugs look like.

Such candles are valued for their simplicity in production, which made it possible to establish affordable prices. However, they do not allow to reveal the entire expression of the engine, although some are able to improve certain indicators.

Multi-electrode type

In this case, there are several side electrodes, which is design feature... Such a candle has a central electrode, which is surrounded on all sides by lateral ones, and they do not overlap the central one, as in the standard version, but simply adjoin it. Visually, such a candle is easy to distinguish from a standard one.

This type differs in a different principle of spark formation. As one of the side electrodes becomes clogged (), a spark starts to flow from the adjacent one. This arrangement provides not only the stability of the spark plug, but also a longer service life.

Another advantage of a multi-electrode plug is that on a standard plug, the side electrode hangs over the central one, overlapping it. This somewhat worsens the combustion of the fuel. The multi-electrode spark plug has an open center electrode, so nothing blocks the spark. This guarantees optimization of fuel consumption, environmental performance and increases the elasticity of the engine.

Plasma-prechamber

Prechamber spark plugs

A new type of spark plugs with self-cleaning capability and increased service life. Their design is fundamentally different from the standard one, since they do not have a side electrode. Its function falls on the body of the candle itself - in it the spark goes in a circle.

Platinum and Iridium

Such candles are distinguished not so much by their design as by the material used for their manufacture. They owe their origin to tests carried out by engineers. Experts have noticed that the thinning of the electrodes of the spark plug provides an improvement in its characteristics - the engine power increases, since it appears at the sharp end of the electrode.

However, it was necessary to solve the problem of rapid wear, because simple steel (alloyed with manganese or nickel) could not withstand such loads. In search of a more suitable metal, 2 options were chosen:

1. Iridium;
2. Platinum.

One more strong point such a candle is its self-cleaning. The reason is the release of a spark from the sidewall, and not the end, which allows literally removing carbon deposits. However, the price of such candles is much higher.

Ranking of the best spark plugs

They fall into several categories:

1. Budget - up to 200 rubles;
2. Average price range - from 200 to 500 rubles;
3. Premium - from 500 rubles.

1. Budget - up to 200 rubles.

BRISK L15Y

This type of plug has one central electrode made of a special nickel-based alloy. This allows the spark plugs to work perfectly on engines without catalysts. Has 1 side electrode. The electrodes are resistant to carbon deposits. The outer side of the candle is galvanized with zinc for protection.

Specifications:

• external thread - 14 mm;
• thread length - 19 mm;
• wrench - 16;
• heat rating - 15 units.

Price - about 50 rubles. for 1 pc.

DENSO Q20PRU11

These candles are made using U-Groove technology. It implies a special groove, worked in a U-shape. It provides the necessary volume to create a spark core. Also, the arrangement of the plug implies the presence of resistors that significantly reduce radio interference - their operation will not affect the radio, telephones, fuel control complexes, etc.

Specifications:

1. External thread - 14 mm;
2. Thread length - 19 mm;
3. Wrench - 16;
4. Distance between electrodes - 0.8 mm;
5. Number of poles - 1 unit.

Price - about 100 rubles. for 1 pc.

BRISK LR15YS

Model LR15YS plugs have been specially developed for use in gas engines. The spark plug has a specially shaped spark gap that guarantees easy access for gases to the discharge. The central electrode is made of silver and has a small diameter. Outer electrode of the tapered lance. All of this greatly reduces the voltage requirements of the spark plug.

Specifications:

• seal - ring;
• thread length - 19 mm;
• wrench - 21;
• distance between electrodes - 0.7 mm;
• Heat number - 15 units.

Price - about 120 rubles. for 1 pc.

BOSCH 0 242 225 624

One of the most popular formats. Distinctive features are - a side electrode (profiled) of a pointed shape, as well as a central one doped with yttrium. This guarantees the engine increased efficiency, protection against corrosion, catalyst preservation and excellent wear resistance.

Specifications:

1. External thread - 14 mm;
2. Thread length - 19 mm;
3. Wrench - 19;
4. Number of poles - 1 unit.

Price - about 150 rubles. for 1 pc.

Video: Spark plugs BOSCH 503 WR 78 Super 4 at a glance

2. Average price range - from 200 to 500 rubles.

DENSO Q20TT

This model of candles was the first in the world to have a nickel central electrode with a diameter of 1.5 mm. In this case, the side electrode has the same diameter of 1.5 mm. This guarantees the candles optimized sparking characteristics - a low voltage is enough to start the motor, which is important in frosty conditions.

Thanks to such indicators, the use of these candles makes it possible to use lean fuel mixtures. Ignition misfires are very rare, the appetite of the engine is reduced by 5%.

Specifications:

• external thread - 14 mm;
• thread length - 19 mm;
• wrench - 16;
• distance between electrodes - 1.1 mm;
• heat number - 20 units.

Price - about 240 rubles. for 1 pc.

BOSCH 0 242 135 515

Such candles have an improved layout - they have a side electrode with a sharp end, and the central electrode is doped with yttrium. This design provides high temperature and wear resistance, excellent reliability, complete combustion of the mixture and protection against corrosion.

Specifications:

1. External thread - 12 mm;
2. Thread length - 19 mm;
3. Wrench - 16;
4. Distance between electrodes - 3 mm;
5. Number of poles - 1 unit.

Price - about 250 rubles. for 1 pc.

NGK BKR6E

These spark plugs have a 3-valent metal coating that guarantees protection against corrosion. The heat dissipation is optimized by the corrugated ceramic insulator, so sparks outside the electrodes are excluded. Heat dissipation is provided by a copper core.

A monolithic resistor made of glass and graphite is responsible for the suppression of interference. It orders the tension directly inside the candle. The center electrode is equipped with a V-shaped tip, whereby the spark is directed to the edges, minimizing the contact area during formation. It also reduces the heat consumption of the electrode itself, which increases the ignition efficiency.

Specifications:

• external thread - 14 mm;
• thread length - 19 mm;
• wrench - 16;
• distance between electrodes - 0.8 mm;
• heat rating - 6 units.

Price - about 400 rubles. for 1 pc.

3. Premium candles - from 500 rubles.

NGK PFR6Q platinum

The middle electrode of such a plug is plated with platinum, which guarantees an equal and stable output, regardless of operating conditions. In addition, due to the use of platinum, the middle electrode is thin. Consequently, the voltage required by the plug is lower, which means lower load and efficient combustion.

Specifications:

1. External thread - 14 mm;
2. Thread length - 19 mm;
3. Wrench - 16;
4. The seat of the candle is flat.

Price - about 525 rubles. for 1 pc.

DENSO IKH20 Iridium Power

The main feature of such candles is the record-breaking small electrode diameter, which is 0.4 mm. The use of such a thin electrode provides excellent ignition and dynamics. A U-shaped groove in the ground electrode reduces voltage and increases flammability. The body of the plug is plated with a nickel-base alloy, which protects the plugs from corrosion. Fuel combustion is more complete, and consumption is reduced.

Specifications:

• external thread - 14 mm;
• thread length - 19 mm;
• wrench - 16;
• diameter of the central electrode - 0.4 mm;
• heat number - 20 units.

Price - about 590 rubles. for 1 pc.

ILKR7B8 NGK

These are candles the highest quality... The middle electrode is equipped with an iridium alloy tip. The tip itself is laser welded using a special technology.

Specifications:

1. External thread - 12 mm;
2. Thread length - 26.5 mm;
3. Wrench - 16;
4. Distance between electrodes - 3.5 mm;
5. The seat of the candle is flat.

Price - about 1,000 rubles. for 1 pc.

Video: Spark plugs alphabet for the inexperienced and self-diagnosis

As you can see, choosing spark plugs is not that difficult. Despite the high cost, it is more profitable to buy iridium and platinum products, since their service life is much longer. However, in the realities of the quality of domestic fuel, it is probably better to change candles more often, but to buy cheap products.

Candles are one of the most important things in a car - without them it is impossible to start the engine, and, therefore, to start moving. They have to work in difficult conditions - at temperatures up to 1000 degrees Celsius, at a voltage of 40,000 volts and a pressure of 100 bar! Below we will consider the types of spark plugs and their features.

When choosing, you should pay special attention to the types of spark plugs. For gasoline engines choose ignition, and for diesel engines - incandescent.

There are three types of electrodes:

1. standard,
2. iridium,
3. platinum.

Standard spark plugs are half the strength of iridium plugs. The best, but also the most expensive, currently available on the market are candles made from platinum. According to manufacturers, their lifespan is determined by the mileage of 100,000 kilometers. It should also be remembered that their durability and engine performance depend on the number and shape of the electrodes. Therefore, when choosing spark plugs for a gasoline car, you should make sure what the requirements of the engine have (single electrode or multi-electrode), and then check if it meets the criteria from the catalog of this product or consult a mechanic.

main parameters

The main parameters include:

• Thermal value, which determines the ability of the plug to dissipate heat.
• The diameter of the thread, which is most often: 18, 14, 12 or 10 mm. It should be noted that in modern engines a clear tendency towards a decrease in thread diameter, which is associated with saving space in the cylinder (because, compared to older designs, it is necessary to leave room for additional valves and a fuel injector).
• Standard spark plug threads are 19mm or 26.5mm. Modern types have much longer threads. This is due to the fact that modern heads made of aluminum alloys are less reliable than those made of cast iron. The large wall thickness of the head bore reduces the risk of thread stripping.
• The size of the key is related to a certain extent to the thread diameter - very often, the larger the thread diameter, the bigger size key. The most commonly used sizes are 20.7, 16 and 14. Sometimes, in addition to the typical hex body, you can find other thread forms.
• The number of side electrodes: 1, 2, 3 or 4 - it is worth noting that more electrodes do not necessarily determine the best candle, that is, the optimal one for of this type engine.
  The electrode cover material is most often a good conductor such as copper, nickel, platinum, iridium.
• The distance between the electrodes - too large can not provide a spark (so called "misfires"), too small can make it difficult to start a warm engine and limits the energy of the spark. Depending on the type and application, the spacing should be between 0.3 and 1.3 mm.
• The tightening torques, depending on the thread diameter, range from 10 to 30 Nm. In the case of screwing in the spark plugs using the torque, the tightening should be weaker, because the metal gasket of the body is no longer so elastic.

Other parameters include, for example, the use of a shielded resistor, custom length threads, and custom motor applications.

Thermal value

This is one of the few "invisible", but very important parameters that determine what kind of spark plugs are and, to what extent, they remove heat from the engine. When a candle removes heat well, therefore, it heats up less, it is called "cold". If it removes heat to a small extent (preserving it) and heats up more - in this case it is said that it is "hot".

The heat value coefficient is indicated as a digital code. Unfortunately, each manufacturer uses a different designation. For example, according to NGK, the higher the value of the heat value coefficient, the colder the candle.

In turn, the manufacturer Bosch has a reverse numbering, in which a high numerical value corresponds to "hot" and a low value to "cold".

Correct heat value

Correctly selected thermal value allows the electrodes to work at the optimum temperature, which can be determined at the level of 450 - 850 ° C. Then the phenomenon of self-cleaning of the electrodes occurs.

1. When the candle is too cold- this phenomenon does not occur and the electrode becomes covered with carbon deposits, which makes it difficult or even impossible for a spark to appear.
2. When the candle is too hot- high temperatures can lead to detonation combustion and melting of the electrodes.

The length of the lower part of the insulator, called the cone, has a direct influence on the efficiency of heat dissipation. The longer it is, the more the candle heats up.

The main task of spark plugs is to initiate the ignition of the fuel / air mixture in the combustion chamber of the engine. From her smooth operation depends on the engine start, its uniform action, performance, speed range and fuel consumption.

Most often, there is one spark plug for each cylinder. However, you can meet other technical solutions. For example, Alfa Romeo Twin Spark engines use two pieces per cylinder.

Standard spark plugs must be replaced every 20,000 to 30,000 km. Platinum and iridium counterparts change even after 100,000 - 120,000 km. When replacing, it is necessary to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations regarding the cost and types of candles used in the car.

How the spark plug works

The principle of operation has not changed since the invention, but, nevertheless, manufacturers are constantly trying to surpass each other, using new technologies and materials for production. Each has a similar structure. The difference between spark plugs is shown in the following figure.

Types of bulk electrodes:

a - standard, with a convex insulator cone,
b - standard presenter,
c - one side,
d - two side electrodes,
e - two side electrodes in a rounded shape,
f - three side electrodes,
g - four side electrodes,
h - platinum center electrode,
i - platinum tip,
j - platinum ends of both electrodes,
k - platinum tips of two side and central electrodes,
l - platinum center electrode.

Difference Between Standard, Iridium and Platinum Spark Plugs

Standard - equipped with a nickel alloy electrode. Ensure efficient drive performance and low consumption fuel. The alloy of the ionic nickel battery plug is characterized by high pot life, and the copper core of the electrode, which is standardly used in such variants, conducts heat well, and also prevents the plug from thermal overload. In addition, it is the cheapest of possible options variety.

Iridium is the type in which high-quality technical solutions are now used. These candles have an iridium alloy center electrode tip. The use of this metal is associated with its features, because iridium is one of the hardest metals and is characterized by high resistance to corrosion. There are other benefits to using iridium. The precious metal allows for a thinner electrode shaft - even 0.4 mm. This, in turn, affects the reduction of the ignition voltage and, in addition, improves the propagation of the ignition flame front in the combustion chamber. Due to the application the latest technologies this kind is more expensive. However, the price is compensated by twice the service life.

Platinum - characterized by a very long period of operation. The platinum plates used in the center electrode provide constant power even under the most difficult conditions.

This electrode is thinner than the standard one. The price of platinum candles is higher than that of standard counterparts. Platinum cells are ideal for gas vehicles. In this case, their service life is even four times higher than that of conventional ones.

How to choose the right candles

Finding the right type of spark plug is very important point... For there are no universal options. For each car model, special types are assigned. These are the ones that should be installed in the car. The most accurate sources of information on which products to use are vehicle operating instructions and manufacturers' catalogs.

Individual companies have different ways product labeling, so it's best to check with the seller before buying. At points of sale, sellers will be happy to advise which types can be used for a given car model and help make right choice type and manufacturer. The assortment includes candles in different price categories, practically from all manufacturers: Beru, Bosch, Denso, NGK.

Spark plugs can vary in size - thread shape, body, standard, heat value and type of electrodes used. You should also pay attention to what kind of fuel your engine is using. It can be gasoline, gas or diesel fuel... All these parameters determine the correct choice.

In the case of older cars that run on gasoline, you can afford to choose the cheapest solution - standard spark plugs. The more expensive and durable iridium and platinum options, which are used in most cars after 2000, will also work. If your car is powered by gas, buying a type that is adapted to this type of fuel is an excellent choice.

What is suitable for diesel engine

Differences in spark plugs have diesel engines- glow plugs are used for them. They serve only to start the drive in the initial stage of operation until the preheating of the motor. The heating time for glow plugs varies and ranges from 3 to 30 seconds. Most used in modern diesel engines, after 3 to 5 seconds warms up to a temperature of 900 degrees Celsius. It is difficult to determine the mileage after which it is necessary to replace them.

In old cars, damage and the need for replacement will be felt by problems with starting even at positive temperatures. In the new designs, the driver is relieved of the task by the ubiquitous electronics that informs about the malfunction of the spark plugs. Mechanics recommend replacing the spark plugs at least every 100 thousand km, although, as practice shows, in many cases they work much longer.

If a glow plug is damaged for a long time, carbon deposits build up on the plug and as a result, problems with plug removal may arise. This may require dismantling the entire head.

• When choosing candles, do not be guided only by price, but also by type. Iridium or platinum types have several times longer service life than standard spark plugs and longer durability.
• Try not to buy candles that are not designer. This is too important a part for a car engine to save money on.
• Don't pick them yourself. It is best to contact a specialist in this matter, who will select a special candle for your car.
• Better not to change the candles yourself. Although the action seems simple, it should be borne in mind that the body is twisted with sufficient force (moment).
• Never install used spark plugs in the car, do not replace them individually. When replacement is necessary, change the entire set at once.

The correct selection of spark plugs is very important and has a positive effect on increasing the life of the entire ignition system. It does this by reducing the level of high voltage generated in the ignition system prior to the consumption of the fuel mixture. Before the onset of the cold season, users of cars with gasoline and gas engines should take care of the working order of the ignition system.

Even minimal damage may not show any symptoms in the summer, but can cause problems in the fall and winter.