I just got the new plugs in, sp515, all the old plugs broke it was a nightmare. Anyway, I did put the anti-seize on the shafts and did as instructed. Are these plugs different design then the original plugs or will these have the same issue next time I change plugs? If they do, maybe I should do,plugs at 150k miles again instead of waiting for 200k.

 

The interval is 60k per Ford. I'm at 50k on my second set and will be replacing them this summer. (Had changed at 58k). I've been wondering the same thing as the dealer broke a lot of my plugs but it sounds like just have the tool handy. Should go without a hitch if it was done correctly.

 

Break again? Yes, unless TSB / other best-practices (e.g Techron, hi-temp nickel a/s) are followed. And even then, no guarantees.

These plugs are still a 2-piece, crimped design. The ground shield is dimensionally identical to all the previous iterations ( except for having a deeper cutout @ the tip). They are still a Single-Plat plug.

As stated, interval is 60K - gap growth still occurs. Waiting any longer is not recommended.

Switch to Champ 7989's (double-plats) to avoid these issues - also need changing @ 60K or less, but if they are installed and gapped properly, they'll do the job - and they Will Never Break upon extraction.

MGD

 

There you have it, nothing more needs said here. I am however amazed to hear you made it to 200k on original plugs.

Every vehicle should be treated to fresh plugs at 50k/60k miles. Early maintenance is never a bad thing, unless maybe if it is a week after doing so .

 

I changed at 103k. Btw ford factory service schedule says 100k. It's just the breaking issue that makes me want to change earlier since there would logically be less carbon in there to seize up the plug shaft. Probably will change at 50k on the plugs like mentioned.

 

^^^ I repeat: it's been updated to 60K.

MGD

 

MGD, do you have experience or anyone else for that matter with the champions?

 

Yep.

Running them now...

MGD

 

All positive? I might consider that when I change mine.

 

There is no consensus here in the forum, people have been having mixed results. Some have no problems, others have had them crap out quick.

 

I've had no issues to-date. Have installed more than a few for folks.

No definitive consensus, due to the very few who have actually tried them, as opposed to the far greater number of folks using MC plugs. I'll bet though, had you asked fer a consensus regarding SP-507/515 plug satisfaction, it too would be all over the map.... reckon plugs separating and seizing in the heads will tend to do that

There are several caveats to maximize their success. Which I suspect most did not follow:

1. INSPECT each one - for whatever reason (gorilla in shipping?) I went through an entire shipment to find 24 good plugs - a lot were dropped.

1a. For that reason, I will never buy plugs online.

2. GAP them properly.

3. Don't use nickel A/S on the shanks.... it's not needed and you avoid the potential for it to migrate down and foul the tip.

4. Torque to 25 Ft-lbs.

5. Change them every ~50K (personally I like 30K, lol). It's cake with these and once you get the hang of it, actually fun ... ZERO pucker-factor.

EDITED to Add for Clarity:

6. Use new boots! I'd assumed that you already knew to do this as part of a complete plug change procedure, but in the case of Champs, their ceramic body is smooth; old boots will have already conformed to the current plug's ribbed body and will not seal well on a new 7989, causing misfires. So - new boots are a MUST. Don't fergit the dielectric!

http://www.fourwheeler.com/how-to/en...rk-plug-blues/

MGD

 

Thanks bud, I think I'll give these ago when I change them out. Good info

 

Agreed the plug design has changed from original FoMoCo plugs, but still vulnerable design

http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/11...515pzh14f.html

Last post from an indicated Ford Master Tech, claims there is a notable difference with the updated plugs

 

I changed my plugs at 70 and all 8 broke so I dont think it maters when you change them they are going to break if you are using factory plugs just buy the 100.00 tool and get ready to use it, I might give those champs a try

 

I can't wait it find out how 10yr old plugs with only 21k miles come out. Will it make a difference or not.. Who knows but i sure hope none break

Not to thrilled about the new 515's being two piece either..