New-Style Spark Plug Said To Improve Cold Starts, Gas Mileage

New-Style Spark Plug Said To Improve Cold Starts, Gas Mileage ENGINES Engines 23-1-29 Spark plugs haven't changed much over the past few decades but Bosch recently introduced a new spark plug that's designed to improve cold start reliability by a third and increase fuel economy by nearly 5 percent. Instead of a single electrode at the end of the plug, the "Platinum + 4" features four electrodes made of a nickel alloy. It's twice as resistant to high temperatures as conventional electrode metals, reducing the potential for erosion and corrosion, the company says. Traditional spark plugs must have a gap that's narrow enough to ensure ignition despite wear or residue build-up. The larger gap on the Bosch plug requires less voltage. The result, according to Bosch, is a longer lasting, more powerful spark, which translates into smoother idling and acceleration and also means better self-cleaning of the carbon deposits that can build on the center electrode during cold starts and warm-ups. These deposits, caused by incomplete combustion, decrease efficiency and reliability and eventually ruin the plug. Fits most import and domestic vehicles dating back to 1983. It's available at automotive after market stores, with a retail price of $5.99. (Popular Mechanics)

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