Platinum/Iridium plugs for 4.0 SOHC?

[2000LTD]

So I'm about to do a full 90k tune up, and after getting a quote from the dealer, I've decided that there is no way I'm paying for them to do it when I can do it for fractions of what they want.

When talking to a service advisor, he told me that I could not replace my plugs with ANYTHING BUT 16 dollar a piece platinum or iridium plugs. I was told otherwise at a local auto parts store however.

Naturally, I want to know if I can get away with a basic autolite plug or something similar.

I don't like to cut corners, and I want whats absolutely necessary for my explorer.

 

[ExplorerDMB]

16 a piece is insane -- maybe they meant for a box of four? Anyhow, you should get Motorcraft plugs - I'm pretty sure AutoZone and all of them sell those plugs. Autolites are ok, but do NOT use champion!

-Drew


ps - Double Plats are what u use

EDIT: I thought I put the part number down somewhere: if you go to this link http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=128068 you will find part numbers for wires and plugs!

 

[Anime]

Be sure you're getting the price per plug. Even at the dealer parts department the Motorcraft platinum plus's are just $5-7/ea. You might be able to find a Motorcraft parts supplier where you live that sells them much cheaper though, or even just calling around to different Ford/Mercury dealerships in your area will get you a lower price from one of them compared to the others.

I have yet to hear of Iridium plugs being spec'd for an Explorer. Usually it's just Japanese/European cars that use them. In any case, you can get NGK/Denso Iridium plugs for about the same as platinum these days at parts stores like Advance.

I would NEVER use anything less than a platinum plus plug in an Explorer. A basic Autolite plug is not going to cut it. Sure, they're cheap, but it's NOT what the engine or ignition was designed for. I strongly suggest sticking with the O.E. spec Motorcraft plugs.