Cracking sparkplugs
#1
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Thread Starter
Cracking sparkplugs
My trucks 3.4 engine tends to crack sparkplugs regularly, about every 4k miles.
When I say crack, I mean it is actually putting a barely visable tiny crack on the porcelin by where the electrode extends out. This crack is enough to make the cylinder misfire and throw the misfire code, generally run like crap. The plugs always look fine with the exception of the crack thing. This has happened 7 or 8 times already. My guess is I may have a lean condition going on or something.
My engine has a 165k on it it and for the most part runs great. I use Denso dual electrode plugs, but it has happened with other types. I have replaced my coil paks, wires, vacuum hoses, all plugs, pvc..etc.
Anyone know whats happening here or experience the same?
I posted this on a different forum also, just looking for some different opinions...thanks!
When I say crack, I mean it is actually putting a barely visable tiny crack on the porcelin by where the electrode extends out. This crack is enough to make the cylinder misfire and throw the misfire code, generally run like crap. The plugs always look fine with the exception of the crack thing. This has happened 7 or 8 times already. My guess is I may have a lean condition going on or something.
My engine has a 165k on it it and for the most part runs great. I use Denso dual electrode plugs, but it has happened with other types. I have replaced my coil paks, wires, vacuum hoses, all plugs, pvc..etc.
Anyone know whats happening here or experience the same?
I posted this on a different forum also, just looking for some different opinions...thanks!
#4
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Thread Starter
#6
Contributing Member
Huh?
Does this only happen just with one or two cylinders or does it happen randomly across all 6 cylinders?
Does this only happen just with one or two cylinders or does it happen randomly across all 6 cylinders?
Last edited by MTL_4runner; 11-05-2007 at 03:17 AM.
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#9
Contributing Member
Also, do you gap your plugs or do you install them right out of the box?
If you do gap them, please explain your method.
Can you please post a clearer photo of the plug you took out, I can't see anything on the previous one you posted.
Zoom out alot if you have to.
Last edited by MTL_4runner; 11-05-2007 at 06:02 AM.
#10
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Thread Starter
Both sides. I only use dual electrode plugs. I dont gap them, but do a visual to make sure they all look the same.
#13
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3, 6 and 4 cylinders so both sides of motor. No detonation at all, not sure about the timing, but usally running perfect. I dont believe its my driving habits as I never rap it out, mostly 3000rpm between shifts. I do always run regular gas, maybe I should switch grades? I did the fuel filter about 50k ago. If you open the pic you should see the crack.
Last edited by boraxman; 11-05-2007 at 04:49 PM.
#14
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Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: Chicago (area) IL
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Compression tested? Dirty Injectors?
3, 6 and 4 cylinders so both sides of motor. No detonation at all, not sure about the timing, but usally running perfect. I dont believe its my driving habits as I never rap it out, mostly 3000rpm between shifts. I do always run regular gas, maybe I should switch grades? I did the fuel filter about 50k ago. If you open the pic you should see the crack.
Have you tested the compression of each cylinder?
Also what brand of gas do you run? and is it "TOP TEIR" FUEL or plain jane discount stuff (btw, there is no "right or wrong" here i'm just curious)
Also, just curious what type of oil?
Also consider running "Shell V power" or "amoco ultimate" for a while as the higher octane will stop some of the pre-detnotaion and the added cleaner will help clean up the valves and injectors. Run at least 5 Strait tankfulls of the Ultimate of "V power" and also consider running techron injector cleaner on a FULL tank of gas.. Careful the tank must be full as you will kill the crap out of you new plugs
good luck and god speed.
icerunner over and out
Last edited by icerunner; 11-06-2007 at 03:49 PM.
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