Time for a tune-up

It is time for a tune-up on our 3.1 TBI Pontiac TS SE.

The options for spark plugs (copper, platinum and so on), spark plug wires (classic, silicon-core, performance) and distributor cap are so many.

From your experience which would be the best choice in spark plugs/wires/distributor kit for this engine in terms of performance/fuel economy?

Thank you

As a general rule, it's best to keep it simple.

Platinum plugs offer nothing in performance, but do have an increased life span.
However, some olders cars have been known to have problems with them.

So, stick with good old fashioned copper, simple plugs. Just make sure you get the right heat range for your vehicle.

Same with spark plug wires.
If your running an insane over power aftermarket ignition system then using thicker heavy duty performance leads would be a good idea.
If it's all standard then stick to standard leads.

Same with your dizzy cap etc.


The ignition system is actually very simple, but there are enough parts to it that are easily user replaced, that people like to "invent" snake oil fixes that don't really do anything but cost more.

Stick with the simple stock parts and you won't have any problems :)

That's pretty much my feeling but it's a good idea to ask before putting double the money into a premium tune-up.

If there's no performance/fuel economy gain from using more expensive Platinum plugs & premium wires then it seems wise to stick to the less expensive solution.

Any brand recommended for these engines (ACDelco, Champion, Denso)?

That's pretty much my feeling but it's a good idea to ask before putting double the money into a premium tune-up.

If there's no performance/fuel economy gain from using more expensive Platinum plugs & premium wires then it seems wise to stick to the less expensive solution.

Any brand recommended for these engines (ACDelco, Champion, Denso)?


stick with the oem ac delco so you only do the job 1 time

I used Bosch platinum plugs a long time ago, that did well. But in my opinion, over the years, I use only Autolite double platinum plugs.

They last a very long time. I do not lok forward to changing them on either of my 3800 engines. On my GTX, I use 3 heat ranges colder. They still last, even when blasted by a 150HP nitrous shot multiple times. Just my experience. Good Luck...:grinyes:

In this case, stay with the AC Delco parts if at all possible..