Help Me out with Spark Plugs, Easy Question!

[south59]

I'm relatively new to fixin my explorer and lately I've noticed signs that would lead me to replacing the plugs and wires..I pulled a few plugs and snapped a pic for some of the experts here to tell me if im looking at a good/bad spark plug and what too look for. Thanks!

 

[Chew_12]

You need to check the gap between the contact points. There are simple tools that you can slide in to measure it that are at autozone or checker. But I forget what the gap has to be at.

 

[homerbundy]

I don't know the exact gap either. But if you go to any parts store, they can tell you how much you should gap 'em. (the tool costs $.99 or so). I recommend Bosch Platinum +2 or better +4 spark plugs. They cost more but you don't have to gap them and they last much longer than others...

 

[mctoy]

Kinda hard to see, but appears to be a 'normal', worn plug to me. I see no evidence of water, fouling, oil, or detonation in the pic. Just some normal carbon build up. (Likely havent been changed in a long time.) Put some more in and drive it!
My .02

 

[south59]

Thanks for the help, so i shouldnt bother changing them right now?

 

[cdsl227]

Looks like a nice normal plug to me too...

Spend for the Bosch 4, they're good plugs..and yeah like homerbundy said, you don't have to gap them.

If you took the time to pull one out- might as well!

 

[mctoy]

If you go ahead and change them, if nothing else,... you get peace of mind, and a reference point for future maintenance...

 

[jimbo74]

well before you get boschit +4 plugs do a search on them.. a large population of members here say they sucked.. dont take only my word for it though... do search and see for yourself.... the regular +2 is a lot better and its cheaper as well, and thats IF your truck requires douple platinums...

the best is STANDARD FORD OEM PLUGS!!!!

 

[Eneurb]

I agree... Motorcraft plugs are the way to go.

 

[jayhawkexplorer]

Exactly...lots of Fords have issues with Bosch plugs.

 

[rollinstone]

I went with 8 new Motorcraft plugs at about 90K....and new wires....happy!

 

[Christobal65]

I was talking to a buddy of mine a few months ago who happens to be a ford tech and he said dont run anything other then motorcraft in an explorer, many of them tend not to like other plugs.