Spark plug opinions

[96rodeo]

Hi, I have a 96 Rodeo V6 3.2L 4X4 with 125,000 miles. I'm getting ready to replace the spark plugs, and I'm wanting to know what brands and types of plugs people with Rodeo's are using and like. Should I only stick with NGK or Denso? Should I go with platinum or iridium plugs (does that make much of a difference in an almost completely stock Rodeo engine)?

-Thanks in advance for any replies.

[2eyefishclaw]

almost sure iridium will work fine the big thing is to stay away from BOSH platinums

[Cat Fuzz]

I use Autolites in my 94, but I've heard people talk on this board about later Rodeo's absolutely needing NGK's or Nippondendo's. I don't remember the years. Just don't fall for those fakey Split Fire type gimmicks. They do nothing except cost you more money.


Hmm, now that I think of it, Autolites are made by the same company the makes Fram filters which are total, complete, utter crap. I think I'll be buying a different brand of plugs next time.

[ibew595]

I run what is on sale and it doesn't care. I have changed plugs 3 or 4 times over 125k 94 v6 bought new. Never used platinum on this car or Bosch.

[96rodeo]

Thanks for the replies everybody.

[Uncle Pow]

So I neglected to check the forums here before jumping into replacing my spark plugs. I put in Bosch Platinums on a 98 V6. Just did this a few days ago. Should I go ahead and get rid of them and get NGKs or Densos? Why are Bosch platinums so bad?

[Ramblin Fever]

I have Bosch platinums in mine, been there for 70k miles, I haven't had a single issue.

[rodeo02]

Originally Posted by Uncle Pow

...Why are Bosch platinums so bad?

They are ok, but just don't work well in some applications. Year 2000 and up 3.2/3.5 don't work well with bosch, <2000 will be fine.

Joel

[bishop242]

2000 Rodeo 3.2 114,000 miles...

Several months back I had a "just between you and I" conversation with the parts department manager / technician at my local Isuzu dealership regarding the need for Denso plugs for my rodeo . His advice - If you don't mind changing plugs every 30-40 thousand miles, the NGK or Bosh NON PLATINUM work perfectly and don't interfere with the sensor function of the plugs. I have been running NGKs for 4,000 miles now and have had no problems. I pulled a plug from each bank @ 2,500 for inspection and the color and condition was normal. I have seen no change in milage or performance.

[Uncle Pow]

Well I should be driving back to Austin today once I get my car out of the shop. Evidently i've been driving on a bad CV boot and two broken CV axles. So if I get any lights i'll let y'all know. I really don't want to have to change the plugs again, but if I need to i'll get the Densos/NGKs, whichever is easier to find.

[rodeo02]

Originally Posted by bishop242

..NGK or Bosh NON PLATINUM work perfectly and don't interfere with the sensor function of the plugs..

Good info! We are finally starting to collect some data as to other spark plugs that will work on the ion sensing equipped 3.2/3.5 (2000+). I'd rather run regular NGK's any day.
Keep us posted!

Thanks
Joel

[smelyal8r]

I put a set of Autolite platinums from Wal-Mart in my 01 Rodeo 3.2 4x4 and have been running them for about 6k without any problems at all.

[Cat Fuzz]

The only thing platinum plugs are good for is lasting longer.

[Ramblin Fever]

Yeah, I'm thinking about going with a different brand this time - my mechanic tends to lean towards Bosch products, but the more I read about their plugs, I'm not too happy.

I haven't had any problems, and yes the "Platinum" plugs have lasted quite a while, but if they're not all that great, I'm not gonna shell the $$$ either.

[Uncle Pow]

I was told by the mechanic that replaced my CV axles that the NGK/Denso plugs are prefered equipment in most japanese cars. Fords are really the only cars that like Bosch plugs with no problems. He also explained that the irridium plugs burn at a much higher temperature so you get a cleaner and more effecient burn. Though I've since found myself in the poor house after the CV axle business back at Christmas (I was straight up suckered into that one) I really don't see a need to drop $60 for a new set of plugs. Nothing seems to be wrong so far. But it is on my list of things to do to the car.