Spark plugs

[doctorhrdware]

I have a 3.8 series 2 naturally aspirated engine. The engine has around 104 k miles. I was wondering if autolite spark plugs are a decent alternative. Since I do not have a supercharger, I would use platinum, and not double platinum.

[inafogg]

hello doc,i'm not sure why u would'nt use ac/delco???as far as autolite they are a good plug & can be used but normally used in ford/mercury.good luck

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by doctorhrdware

Since I do not have a supercharger, I would use platinum, and not double platinum.

The OE spark plugs (AC Delco) for the L36 and L67 engines were double platinum so why use single platinum. The Autolite APP 606 work just fine in the N/A or Supercharged SII 3800. The APP are double platinum and a decent alternative. The current recommended AC Delco plugs are the 41-101 Iridium which are made for GM by NGK. Another good alternative plug is the NGK TR55IX Iridium. Gap all at .060".

[doctorhrdware]

Just trying to save some money but if it not good in the long run, I will stick with the double platinum. There is a sale for the autolite paltinum for .77 each.

[richtazz]

The problem with running single platinum plugs in a GM waste spark DIS ignition system (like your car has) is that each plug is fired twice per crank revolution (once on the power stroke, and once on the exhaust stroke when the companion cylinder on that coil is on the power stroke). This will cause premature wear if you use single platinum plugs. IF you can get the single platinums that cheap and you don't mind changing the plugs again a little sooner, go for it. For longevity's sake, you'd be better off with double-platinums.

[doctorhrdware]

Ok I will go with the double platinum ac delco plugs.

[BNaylor]

You might reconsider getting the AC Delco double platinums. Hard to come by and no longer made. The OE plugs were the AC Delco 41-921 (double platinum). As I mentioned earlier the AC Delco Iridium 41-101 is now the recommended replacement if you go with AC Delco brand plugs.

[doctorhrdware]

I will get the AC Delco Iridium 41-101, hopefully I can catch them on sale.

[00GTP4ME]

I have a S/C 3800 SII engine in my Prix and I put Autolite 605's in there and it runs great.

[BNaylor]

Since this is a normally aspirated SII 3800 and not a L67 I would stay with the Autolite in the stock heat range of 606 only. You can use the copper core 606, AP 606, or APP 606. Check gap at .060".

Also, the OP can use the NGK TR55IX Iridium which you can typically find cheaper than the AC Delco 41-101 Iridium which I remind everyone is made by NGK for GM.

[doctorhrdware]

I value everyone's opinons here, and will stay with the delco spark plugs. I am price shopping first to see who has the best price.

[fantastic]

I know this post is a few days old but for what its worth I just changed my plugs '02 Prix 3800 non super charged I used Bosch platinum (single) as AC Delco weren't available.

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by fantastic

I used Bosch platinum (single) as AC Delco weren't available.

This is not a trick question. Now is that good or bad? Hopefully you have good luck out of them.

Here is a good example of why not to use Bosch plugs. Of the 6 replaced under routine maintenance these 3 Bosch single platinums were pulled out of a '00 GT (NA SII 3800) after only 4K miles. Symptoms fixed cylinder misfire DTCs P030X and a blinking SES/CEL light. As a result all 6 were replaced with AC Delcos. The pic is self explanatory and worth a thousand words.

[fantastic]

Well, I've driven 600kms so far and its running better then before....I hope I don't run into problems. if I do I will post for help!!

[tblake]

Yeah Bob, every time at the wal-mart I have to stop by the auto section, I know it never changes, I just cant resist the urge.

I look at the bosch plugs, The center electrode seems to be covered by the ceramic insulator. Often thought to myself..."What happenes when this tiny exposed center electrode fouls out?" Have to cut your hands all back up fighting with removing the rear spark plug boots all over again. Not worth it....

BTW, autolite 605's are doing good! I'll probably change them out again before it starts getting cold for the winter just because they are so cheap and I tend to always have to be tinkering with something.....