Spark plugs are actually, just a tool at the end of, the high voltage ignition system.
They are at the receiving end, of the high voltage and are what makes, the spark happen in the cylinder.
But, spark plugs, actually have more than just one job. Most importantly, they ignite the gasoline/air mixture, in the combustion chamber.
But, spark plugs, also remove heat from the combustion chamber.
Consequently, they cannot create heat, they can only remove heat. So, they work as a heat exchanger, by pulling unwanted thermal energy, from the combustion chamber. Consequently, transferring heat, to the engines cooling system. Furthermore, the heat range, is its ability dissipate heat from the tip.
They are what ignites the air/fuel mixture, creating the explosion, which makes your engine produce power. These small but simple plugs, create an arc of electricity, across two leads which are not touching. But, are close enough together, that electricity can jump the gap, between them.
Over time, the gap between the electrodes grows larger. And that requires an increase of electricity. As this happens, the ignition performance deteriorates, leading to unstable ignition. Eventually, the gap will grow so large, that the spark plug won’t arc at all.
So, it’s true that over time, the explosions and corrosion lead to, smaller or weaker sparks. As a result, leading to reduced efficiency in your engine. And, if not checked, could lead to other issues, including misfiring or failure to fire.
There is a lot of debate about the, power differences, between different electrode materials. All of the discussion is mostly nonsense. The best judge of which spark plugs is best, is your vehicle manufacturer. Therefore, when in need of a replacement, trust your owner’s manual above all else.
Choose Your Help Topic Below
Spark Plug Problems – Function – Failure Symptoms – Replacement
They Need To Be Changed Sooner Or Later
Spark Plug – How Do I Read My Spark Plug Condition – What They Tell You
Spark Plug Problems – Function – Failure Symptoms – Replacement
Spark Plug Health – Is Directly Linked To Overall Engine Performance
Spark Plug Color – Evidence Of What Is Happening Inside The Engine
Thank You !