Spark plugs and increased fuel consumption
Thread Starter
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 21
Likes: 0
From:
Spark plugs and increased fuel consumption
I just installed Bosch Platinum 2 plugs in my 2000 Dakota V-6. I put these plugs in to fix a backfiring issue that I had (the plugs weren't the cause anyway, had a plug wire burning thru.) I have had increased fuel consumption (dropped from 15-17 mpg to 12-13 mpg) over the past few weeks that I'm not sure that was caused by the backfiring damaging something or the new plugs. To fix the backfiring, I changed the distributor cap, the rotor button, plugs, and plug wires. The plugs were the only thing that I changed that weren't OEM type. I was wondering if anyone had come across any issues with plugs that have multiple electrodes or might have any suggestions in regards to the fuel consumption. Thanks!
Champion
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 4,119
Likes: 5
From: Sycamore, Illinois (displaced to Arkansas)
RE: Spark plugs and increased fuel consumption
Check your gap. The 3.9L should have 0.035 inch gap.
As far as multiple electrodes, I've heard some people recommend against. I have the plain old Champion copper spark plugs in mine, and mine runs just fine. I've heard people say the iridium plugs are good, as well.
You might want to check your air filter.
Not that it will necessairly give you a raise in mileage, but run some fuel system (injector) cleaner, and some SeaFoam engine treatment to clean the valves.
As far as multiple electrodes, I've heard some people recommend against. I have the plain old Champion copper spark plugs in mine, and mine runs just fine. I've heard people say the iridium plugs are good, as well.
You might want to check your air filter.
Not that it will necessairly give you a raise in mileage, but run some fuel system (injector) cleaner, and some SeaFoam engine treatment to clean the valves.
Record Breaker
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 2,415
Likes: 0
From: Wisconsin
RE: Spark plugs and increased fuel consumption
I wouldn't recommend multiple electrode plugs. They don't seem to work well or last very long in the Magnum motors...GM's 3800 motors...or GM's 60 degree v6 motors...or their vortec motors. Come to think of it, they don't work so well in many motors as far as I know. [&:]
Autolite platinums or Champion Copper plugs will work the best for you, gapped at .035 as suggested above
You didn't move the distributor at all when you were replacing things did you? Just a thought.
You can try checking the air filter as suggested. Fuel filter as well, though that wouldn't really hurt your mileage.
Autolite platinums or Champion Copper plugs will work the best for you, gapped at .035 as suggested above
You didn't move the distributor at all when you were replacing things did you? Just a thought.
You can try checking the air filter as suggested. Fuel filter as well, though that wouldn't really hurt your mileage.
Registered User
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 12
Likes: 0
RE: Spark plugs and increased fuel consumption
just get old fashioned coppers and check your gap very carefully......most people say the multi-electrode plugs are horrible. the ONLY advantage to platinum or iridium is how long they last...the center electrode doesn't erode as fast.... I would use stock OE plugs. use anti-seize on the threads and call it good.
