Correct Iridium Spark Plug Gap

[6MONTAGE]

I replaced NGK conventional spark plugs with NGK Iridium XL part # 3903 spark plugs.

All documentation about 1995 Geo Metro L4 engine states that spark plug gap must be .044". However, the spark plugs arrived locked at .032" gap. To make it more confusing, the NGK site states that all their Geo Metro L4 "OE" gap
settings are .044" (including the iridium).

So: Should I use them at .032" or bend the electrode to .044".

As an aside: I bought the Iridium with the thought of keeping a healthier engine and insure more longevity for the engine. Is this a phastasma? And has anyone out there experienced better fuel economy with iridium or platinum plugs?

[michael_lindsay2]

i just put a set of ngk plugs in my 95 metro. the auto dealer were i got them said to set them at .042. checked with other auto parts an they said same thing.

[RickMN]

You have to change the gap to .044". You don't necessarily get better mileage. What you get is a gap that won't deteriorate as fast as with standard or platinum plugs. So as they age, they retain the gap and that's how you get better mileage, over the long run by maintaining gap.

[6MONTAGE]

Were yours factory pre-set at .042" or did you have to gap them to that
opening? Do yours show NGK part # BPR6EGP (Platinum) or NGK part # 3906 (Iridium)? Was it a Chevy dealer who said .042"?

Both the Haynes Manual and the NGK site http://www.ngk.com/results_app.asp?aaia=1105232 say .044; and
AutoPartsGiant.com says "Do not regap OE Iridium NGK."

So who is one to believe. Or is it that a difference of .012 or of .002 makes little difference? (I do like to get things right on my venerable Geo Metro.)

Minor point: Was it Denso or NGK that supplied the OE for 1995 Geo Metro LSi
L4; does anyone know? (Denso site also specifies .044 not .042 nor .032.)