[Nodnerb]

When does the manual say to change the spark plugs for a 2005 xlt 3.0? I don't have a manual. Anyone have any good experiences with "better" than oem plugs, or should I just get motorcraft?
Thanks.

 

[stone]

" NGK Iridium" spark plugs, appear to have a good reputation. :thumb:

They are expensive, but the quality is assured.

 

[Squishy]

I wouldn't stray from OEM unless new coils are in your budget. Stay away from BOSCH, though NGK, Champion, and ACDelco aren't as risky. Autolite makes the OEM Motorcraft plugs. The "gimmick" plugs like Pulsar or the ones with a billion electrodes aren't usually worth it.

I'm not sure what the 2005 maintenance interval is, but I would get the factory plugs out by 60,000-100,000 miles. They go in dry and the longer they stay in there, the more you risk stripping threads when removing them. You can download an online version of the manual from a link in the Problems and Solutions thread.

 

[hurk]

I would use Motorcraft oem or Autolite double platinums but would consider NGKs for the simple reason that I use them in my vintage (old) Japanese motorcycle.

Big Jim on another forum does not like the Champion plugs.
From reading his posts he seems to be very knowledgeable.
Apparently from his experiences, the ceramic insulator on them is prone to cracking or breaking.

 

[CrashNburn]

ive used champions in motorcycles and dirt bikes for years, my CBR is like 10.5:1 compression and i havent had a problem with the champions yet, and i just put a set in an 84 VFR750 that im fixing up.

 

[escape05xls]

the NGK iridium ones are stock in all my 4 cylinder cars, vibe, ms3, ss. So its a good plug. But yes its about $4 a plug.... Oem should be just fine and not cost to much.

 

[Squishy]

Champions aren't what they used to be - I have had many mechanics tell me that they belong only in Mopars and lawnmowers. For the Autolite, keep in mind that they have stated in the past that, while they do manufacture the majority of Motorcraft spark plugs, Autolite plugs are not built to Ford specifications. The OEM plug, as far as I know, is also just a single platinum plug - we don't have a waste-spark ignition system so the double platinum is not really needed.

I recently had to take out the AC plugs I put in earlier this year. Frequent misfires and likely burned out a coil a few months ago. I have Motorcraft coppers (AGSF32C) in there until I get to the platinum plug replacement mileage, then I'm sticking with OEM. I had changed out the factory set early to keep them from seizing in the head.