Ford Spark Plugs are the only plugs that have been tested, designed, and developed specifically for Ford vehicles. In addition, they are fully warranted. This ensures your vehicle will run smoothly and without problems. These plugs are made of the high quality components and are re-built to the same rigorous standards as OEM.
For 20 years, the Ford Motor Company has operated a spark-plug plant in Treforest, South Wales. The plant has about 330 employees and produces up to 30 million spark plugs a year. A recent purchase by Allied-Signal Automotive will expand the supply of spark plugs to North America.
As a result, you should be sure to replace your spark plugs at the recommended interval. Several models are recommended for changing plugs at 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Performance cars, however, may require plug changes more frequently.
The Ford Technical Service Bulletin, TSB 08-7-6, recommends loosening the spark plugs by 1/8 to 1/4 turn. After the plugs are loosened, spray a small amount of oil in the spark plug well. Allow the oil to sit for about a minute. You should then apply a nickel antiseize to the tip of the plug.
It is also important to maintain the heat range of the plug. This is the amount of energy transferred from the spark to the combustion chamber. Although there is no direct correlation between the heat range and the intensity of the spark, it is important to use the manufacturer's recommended heat range. If your plugs are running too hot, it can damage the electrodes. Similarly, if they are too cold, it can cause the plug to not function properly.
Another issue to watch for is carbon buildup. Carbon is a by-product of combustion and can accumulate around the electrode shell. This will make it difficult to remove the spark plug. However, it can be broken with about 35 pounds of force. Once the carbon has been removed, the electrodes can be re-inserted.
Spark plugs are made from materials such as copper, platinum, and iridium. These are more expensive than standard metals but can offer better performance. Platinum is more durable than copper. Iridium spark plugs are used for economy and older engines and can be five times more expensive than the standard version.
Regardless of your engine's age, it is important to keep the spark plugs clean and in good condition. Ideally, you should change the spark plugs on an average of every 30,000 to 40,000 miles. If your engine is hard to start or the check engine light comes on, it is a good idea to change the plugs sooner.
There are several factors to consider when deciding whether or not to change the plugs. It is not advisable to perform the job yourself. You should rely on a technician who is trained in the proper removal and installation of spark plugs. The plugs may be damaged when removed by unqualified persons. Additionally, the plugs have been proven to fail in about 60,000 to 100,000 miles.