What is the disadvantage of iridium spark plugs?
Iridium spark plugs are a type of spark plug that have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their improved performance and longevity compared to traditional spark plugs. However, there is one key disadvantage to using iridium spark plugs that should be considered.
The High Cost of Iridium Spark Plugs
The primary disadvantage of iridium spark plugs is their higher cost compared to standard spark plugs. Iridium is a rare and expensive metal, and the manufacturing process for iridium spark plugs is more complex, which drives up the overall cost. Iridium spark plugs can cost two to three times more than standard copper or platinum spark plugs.>
Factors Contributing to the Higher Cost
There are a few key factors that contribute to the higher cost of iridium spark plugs:
- Iridium is a rare and precious metal, making it more expensive to source and process.
- The manufacturing process for iridium spark plugs is more complex, requiring specialized equipment and techniques.
- Iridium spark plugs are designed to last longer than standard spark plugs, so there is less frequent replacement required, but the upfront cost is higher.
While the higher cost of iridium spark plugs may be offset by their longer lifespan and improved performance, it is still an important factor to consider, especially for budget-conscious consumers or those with older vehicles that may not require the advanced features of iridium spark plugs.
Do iridium spark plugs really make a difference?
Iridium is an extremely durable metallic element, which makes it a great fit as the material for spark plugs. The main property of the iridium spark plugs is that their electrode material comes with a high melting point. They offer a complete combustion and ensure a better performance.
What is the problem with iridium spark plugs?
This is potentially different from what advertising companies suggest, but the other metals are, unfortunately, not as conductive in general as copper is. Platinum and iridium plugs are more likely to overheat, which causes damage to the plug components and can compromise the delivery of the spark to the engine block.
Which is better, an iridium or platinum spark plug?
To actually answer your question, iridums are better than platinum. Iridum is a harder metal, so it holds up better than platinum for long service intervals and iridum is a much better electrical conductor than platinum, making for a better spark.
Are iridium spark plugs good for older engines?
Yes, it is.
Also, older vehicles may well be suffering such problems as reduced ignition coil performance. An iridium spark plug with low required voltage uses the energy of the coil effectively for efficient combustion of the air-fuel mixture.
Can I replace copper spark plugs with iridium?
Many newer cars cannot operate as designed using copper-core spark plugs, and they will experience issues with dependability. Most cars that take copper spark plugs can use iridium plugs, but they need to be the right size, voltage, and heat range. Only use spark plugs that are compatible with your engine.
What went wrong with iridium?
Because Iridium's technology depended on line-of-sight between the phone antenna and the orbiting satellite, subscribers were unable to use the phone inside moving cars, inside buildings, and in many urban areas. Moreover, even in open fields users had to align the phone just right in order to get a good connection.
What is the life expectancy of iridium spark plugs?
100,000 miles
Recommended Spark Plug Replacement Intervals:
Platinum Spark Plugs: Platinum spark plugs have a longer lifespan and may last up to 60,000 miles or more before replacement is necessary. Iridium Spark Plugs: Iridium spark plugs are known for their durability and longevity, often lasting up to 100,000 miles or more.
What is the best spark plug for a Briggs and Stratton engine?
Briggs & Stratton Platinum Plug
The Long Life Platinum Spark Plug is better because it's specially designed for easy starts and long lasting performance in outdoor power equipment powered by today's 4-cycle engines.
Do iridium spark plugs improve gas mileage?
Switching to iridium spark plugs can considerably improve the mileage of the gasoline vehicles on the highway. This change comes from the fact that you now have a better ignition profile to ensure the efficient burning of the fuel.
What is the best spark plug for older engines?
Copper spark plugs
Copper spark plugs are also often used in older (pre-1980s) vehicles with a distributor-based ignition system. The nickel-alloy outer material used in the copper spark plug isn't as hard as other metals so it wears down more quickly with the high pressure and heat created in the cylinder of the engine.
