How long do ignition coils/spark plugs last?
#16
Drifting
They'll last 100k miles on a Porsche too, or close to it. Porsche's change interval is conservatively short, but this ensures the spark is always within tolerance for the best power levels. I wouldn't stress over extending the interval if you're running late on maintenance (or don't care if you get a slight drop in power as they wear out of tolerance), but you're still better off changing them at 30k.
#18
Racer
#19
Most anti seize in US are conductive (copper, aluminum, or nickel) so it's ok to just use a little dab. The reason Porsche recommended no because the anti seize at the time was not conductive so it may hinder current flow.
#20
The coil packs are good until they are not, as stated. The problem with letting the plugs sit in there for too long is they start to corrode and become a major b8(&^ to get out. I do around 7 years regardless of mileage. I always stick to genuine coil packs and plugs. I have wasted far too much time chasing gremlins in cars that have always come back to non oem plugs and packs.
#22
Rennlist Member
I Just replaced my coils, the car has been driven 137000 kms and all coils were overdue for change. One had failed, all were cracked, rusted and prone to total failure. The previous owner should have changed then I think. So definatly change them before I did.
#23
Race Director
Anti-seize is not recommended for plugs for two reasons.
One reason is the stuff creates a gap between the plug and head threads. From the stresses the plug will move and this forces the anti-seize out. The plug can become loose.
Additionally this leaves room for the pressure in the cylinder to force combustion gases into this space. This leads to corrosion. Even with no anti-seize this happens. Look at pictures of old plugs. The threads are discolored from the tip upwards. (This highlights why plugs need to be changed on time if not miles.)
The other problem is the anti-seize as it works its way out of the threads can foul the 02 sensors.
Best to use the right plugs which come with a special surface treatment/coating which acts as a dry lubricant and yet ensures good thread contact with no gaps. This results in the best heat transfer from the plug to the head. Additionally the plug stays tight in the head and the threads are exposed to less corrosion. But the plugs still should be changed when due on miles or time.
#24
Anti-seize with alum. has been around since Moses was a boy.
Anti-seize is not recommended for plugs for two reasons.
One reason is the stuff creates a gap between the plug and head threads. From the stresses the plug will move and this forces the anti-seize out. The plug can become loose.
Additionally this leaves room for the pressure in the cylinder to force combustion gases into this space. This leads to corrosion. Even with no anti-seize this happens. Look at pictures of old plugs. The threads are discolored from the tip upwards. (This highlights why plugs need to be changed on time if not miles.)
The other problem is the anti-seize as it works its way out of the threads can foul the 02 sensors.
Best to use the right plugs which come with a special surface treatment/coating which acts as a dry lubricant and yet ensures good thread contact with no gaps. This results in the best heat transfer from the plug to the head. Additionally the plug stays tight in the head and the threads are exposed to less corrosion. But the plugs still should be changed when due on miles or time.
Anti-seize is not recommended for plugs for two reasons.
One reason is the stuff creates a gap between the plug and head threads. From the stresses the plug will move and this forces the anti-seize out. The plug can become loose.
Additionally this leaves room for the pressure in the cylinder to force combustion gases into this space. This leads to corrosion. Even with no anti-seize this happens. Look at pictures of old plugs. The threads are discolored from the tip upwards. (This highlights why plugs need to be changed on time if not miles.)
The other problem is the anti-seize as it works its way out of the threads can foul the 02 sensors.
Best to use the right plugs which come with a special surface treatment/coating which acts as a dry lubricant and yet ensures good thread contact with no gaps. This results in the best heat transfer from the plug to the head. Additionally the plug stays tight in the head and the threads are exposed to less corrosion. But the plugs still should be changed when due on miles or time.
We can debate forever and you won't find a definitive proof. For topics like that, I go by proved experience.
Your O2 sensor comment is interesting as most O2 sensors come with anti seize applied from the factory.