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Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

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Old Jan 26, 2010 | 11:33 AM
  #1  
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From: Brownsville, Tx
Car: 92 Camaro RS
Engine: 305 TBI
Transmission: Manual
Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Over the years I have bought good and bad spark plugs. I once bought the Bosch 4+, the ones with the four prongs and they were great on fuel eceonomy but sucked in power. I have used the Split Fires for many years and have gotten good results but I still have that nagging question about the best sparks to use.

Also, I have heard from different mechanics as to which sparks to use and get varying answers. So, I will ask the question here and see what happens:

What are the best/recommeded spark plugs for a 92 Camaro RS (305 TBI)? Hopefully, I can put this question to rest. Thx for any info in this!
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Old Jan 26, 2010 | 11:38 AM
  #2  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

get some ac delcos and call it a day.
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Old Jan 27, 2010 | 04:06 AM
  #3  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Usually when you ask for an opinion on the best spark plugs, you'll get a hundred different replies. My personal one is I've never had decent results with any of the Bosch platinum style plugs. I experienced the same result as you, lack of power. They seem to work good in 4 cylinders, but tons of people complain about them when they run em in a V8. Sh*tfires are just overpriced gimmickry. I had the same motor as you, 305 TBI. I ran the AC plugs in it for a while, and they worked fairly decent. However, I did notice a slight improvement when I switched to Champion RV17YC's. Car had a little better pickup and power with them. Keep in mind those are just the standard, run-of-the-mill Champion plugs(Copper Plus), no exotic metals, multiple tips, etc. I don't know how well they work in the TPI motors, but they sure kept my lowly TBI happy! I changed them about every 45K or so. If you want plugs that'll go 100K without problems, go with the AC Delco Rapidfires. They're a bit spendy though.
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Old Jan 27, 2010 | 04:13 AM
  #4  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

used 8 different kinds and best one was accel U-Groove blister pack best ones i ever bought made a .25 difference on time records compared to my second best times using V power spark plugs trust me worth every pennie
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Old Jan 27, 2010 | 09:24 AM
  #5  
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From: Brownsville, Tx
Car: 92 Camaro RS
Engine: 305 TBI
Transmission: Manual
Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Thanks for the feedback! Also, anyone ever used the iridium or more "exotic" plugs and if yes, was it worth their price?

So, to recap for those maybe looking into buying sparks for their camaro here are the top choices so far for a 305 TBI

Top Choices:
1. AC Delco (though no explanation given)
2. AC Delco Rapidfire
3. Accel U-Groove
4. Champion RV17YC's

Poor Choices:
1. Bosch Platinum
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Old Jan 27, 2010 | 09:36 AM
  #6  
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Car: 1991 Formula Firebird
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Axle/Gears: 3.23 10-bolt
Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

I've had nothing but good experience with NGKs. I use them in all of our vehicles when possible...from Z06 and Formula to LeSabre and Sierra.
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Old Jan 27, 2010 | 09:46 AM
  #7  
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From: Brownsville, Tx
Car: 92 Camaro RS
Engine: 305 TBI
Transmission: Manual
Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Never heard of NGK but I'll add it to the list. I'll check out NGK. Thanks.

Top Choices:
1. AC Delco (though no explanation given)
2. AC Delco Rapidfire
3. Accel U-Groove
4. Champion RV17YC's
5. NGK

Poor Choices:
1. Bosch Platinum
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Old Jan 29, 2010 | 10:27 PM
  #8  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Originally Posted by B'tx
Never heard of NGK but I'll add it to the list. I'll check out NGK. Thanks.
You can get NGKs at most car-parts stores or online vendors. I usually get them from Summit and stock up when I am buying other stuff.

The TR-6s worked especially well, but they are a colder plug that I used in a nitroused 382...
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Old Jan 31, 2010 | 11:13 AM
  #9  
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Car: 1985 Z28 in Silver
Engine: 302(4bbl)
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

I've got Champion RV19YC's in mine! I have heard that my 85 Z28(305, 4bbl) is supposed to be running RV17YC's. I'm a bit worried that the heat range is wrong with these plugs(RV19YC's). Anyone else used the 19's over the 17's?
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Old Jan 31, 2010 | 03:37 PM
  #10  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Unless you've got a problem, or a different configuration then stock, your engine is going to perform just as well on the recommended OEM AC Delco plug as any of the gimmick plugs.
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Old Jan 31, 2010 | 07:09 PM
  #11  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Which Accel U grooves are you running? I'm about to do my spring tune up on my camaro and I was looking at the accel plugs. I've never heard anything but good stuff out of them.
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Old Feb 18, 2010 | 07:24 PM
  #12  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

my car burns a lot of oil and the block learn is sitting at 158. injector pulse width is 2.48ms but it misfires, lack of power stumble popping at 4200 rpms. i am running champion plugs now gapped .35. so my question is how can i benefit from running different plugs. would a different heat range or better plug withstand oil fouling and what not. also what heat range.
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Old Aug 6, 2011 | 09:50 PM
  #13  
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Car: 1991 RS L99 1992 Z28 L98 Heritage
Engine: L99 L98
Transmission: 6L80E / 700R4
Axle/Gears: 3.23 LSD disc (both)
Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Originally Posted by B'tx
Never heard of NGK but I'll add it to the list. I'll check out NGK. Thanks.

Top Choices:
1. AC Delco (though no explanation given)
2. AC Delco Rapidfire
3. Accel U-Groove
4. Champion RV17YC's
5. NGK

Poor Choices:
1. Bosch Platinum
No disrespect, but you really have never heard of NGK? Its one of the biggest plug companies on Earth. Again, no disrespect but what year were you born in? That might shed some light on it.
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Old Aug 6, 2011 | 10:37 PM
  #14  
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Car: 1990 IROC-Z 1LE
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Originally Posted by Drew
Unless you've got a problem, or a different configuration then stock, your engine is going to perform just as well on the recommended OEM AC Delco plug as any of the gimmick plugs.


It ain't broke... you finish the rest
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Old Aug 7, 2011 | 10:07 AM
  #15  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Originally Posted by mikesanto70
No disrespect, but you really have never heard of NGK? Its one of the biggest plug companies on Earth. Again, no disrespect but what year were you born in? That might shed some light on it.

Holy 18 month bump batman
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Old Mar 8, 2013 | 02:39 PM
  #16  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Bump
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Old Mar 8, 2013 | 03:14 PM
  #17  
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Car: 88 GTA
Engine: 383
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

NGK makes AC Delco plugs.
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Old Mar 8, 2013 | 03:30 PM
  #18  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Why would you revive this thread? Its all subjective. Let the dead horse rest in peace.
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Old Mar 8, 2013 | 03:59 PM
  #19  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Originally Posted by Krik
Why would you revive this thread? Its all subjective. Let the dead horse rest in peace.
Because the tgo search bar is awesome
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Old Mar 8, 2013 | 06:43 PM
  #20  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

:facepalm:
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Old Jun 1, 2013 | 07:31 AM
  #21  
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Car: 1988 Camaro Base model
Engine: 305 LO3 5.0L V8 TBI
Transmission: 700R4
Axle/Gears: 10Bolt Rear, Not sure the gearing
Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Use ac delco. Bosch and shitfires are for 4 cylinder hi-revving rpm engines. Chevys use ac delco parts for a reason and if your car runs good (not burning oil or coolant) you'll easily get 100,000 miles out of them
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Old Feb 27, 2016 | 07:10 PM
  #22  
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Axle/Gears: 3.42 I believe ?
Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Ok guys here's my question as far as fuel economy? Im only looking into Ac Delco's or NGK. Which one gives better mpg? It might not be such a big difference but I know NGK is strictly for Japanese cars. Which those rice rockets are known for their good mpg's (no offense hehe AMERICAN MUSCLE...U.S.A.��)
Attached Thumbnails Best/Recommended Spark Plugs-att_1453259028131_00g0g_iprulxokwvm_600x450.jpg  

Last edited by 3rdGen24/7; Feb 27, 2016 at 07:16 PM.
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Old Feb 28, 2016 | 05:23 AM
  #23  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Originally Posted by 3rdGen24/7
Ok guys here's my question as far as fuel economy? Im only looking into Ac Delco's or NGK. Which one gives better mpg? It might not be such a big difference but I know NGK is strictly for Japanese cars. Which those rice rockets are known for their good mpg's (no offense hehe AMERICAN MUSCLE...U.S.A.��)

ac Delco platinum's or iridium by ngk or ac delco
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Old Feb 28, 2016 | 07:25 AM
  #24  
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Engine: LG4, LT1, L31
Transmission: 700R4, 4L60E, 4L60E
Axle/Gears: 3.73 Tors, 4.88 spool, 3.73 Eaton
Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Originally Posted by 3rdGen24/7
Ok guys here's my question as far as fuel economy? Im only looking into Ac Delco's or NGK. Which one gives better mpg? It might not be such a big difference but I know NGK is strictly for Japanese cars. Which those rice rockets are known for their good mpg's (no offense hehe AMERICAN MUSCLE...U.S.A.��)
No difference in mpg. Stop listening to/reading anyone/anything that tells you any different.
Use the correct plug for the application, correct reach, correct heat range, and there is no difference in performance or mileage between those two or any other quality plug.
Just make your choice based on availiablity/price.
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Old Dec 29, 2016 | 12:35 PM
  #25  
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Car: 1987 GTA
Engine: 350 TPI w/ extras !
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Ive got champion RV17YC plugs in my 87 5.7 TPI engine and it runs great.

​​​​​​​ive just got an 84 Trans Am now with a 305 H.O engine and the parts place says i should use RV19YC plugs. Does anyone know if thats right, i thought it would use the same plugs as my 87 ?
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Old Dec 29, 2016 | 01:07 PM
  #26  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Hmm..I wonder if the '84, being carbureted, needs a hotter plug (19) to avoid fouling?
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Old Dec 29, 2016 | 01:19 PM
  #27  
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Car: 1987 GTA
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Must be the heat range yeah.

​​​​​​​just waiting for a definite answer really before i order them.
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Old Jan 1, 2017 | 02:26 AM
  #28  
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Car: 1989 Iroc-Z Camaro
Engine: TBI,5.0
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

So far I like these the best in my car.
NGK G-Power Platinum's

= https://www.ngksparkplugs.com/produc...-plugs/g-power

$3.49 each = http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/de...patibilityTab_
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Old Jan 1, 2017 | 07:38 AM
  #29  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Although I use Bosch parts ( sparkplugs) in about all what I drive, I have to admitt, Bosch sparkplugs and Chevy Small Blocks don't go well together.
I have good results with AC Delco Rapidfire's in my (almost) stock Firebird Formula 5.7 TPI.
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Old Jan 1, 2017 | 11:32 AM
  #30  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Originally Posted by Fire"Dutch"Bird
Although I use Bosch parts ( sparkplugs) in about all what I drive, I have to admitt, Bosch sparkplugs and Chevy Small Blocks don't go well together.
I have good results with AC Delco Rapidfire's in my (almost) stock Firebird Formula 5.7 TPI.
For me, you hit it right on the head. I SWORE BY Bosch platinum plugs when I worked at a Chevy dealer in the 80s. But, I watched tech after tech get cars in with driveability problems after a tune up. If they found plugs other than AC, they'd pull 'em, replace 'em, and 9 times out of 10 fix the problem. Makes not earthly sense, but seeing is believing. As a result, I will not try those plugs in my L03.

I will admit that I have some Iridium plugs in the L31 in my Suburban right now, and they run fine. No better, but no worse than the original platinum ACs that came out of it.
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Old Jan 1, 2017 | 03:04 PM
  #31  
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Stock engine=stock spark plugs; the engineers spent a lot of time designing the stock engine, including what plugs to use in it. Start running bigger cams and higher compression and then you will have to consider a colder spark plug to prevent preignition.
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Old Jan 1, 2017 | 05:01 PM
  #32  
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Car: 1987 GTA
Engine: 350 TPI w/ extras !
Transmission: 700R4
Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

I give up on all the compatability things when trying to order plugs, Rock Auto tells me one thing, ebay tells me another, a US parts supplier here in the UK tells me a 3rd thing !!!

I run Champion RV17YC plugs in my 87 GTA, HOWEVER...... i also recently aquired an 84 Trans Am with the stock 305 H.O. engine and cant get a straight answer what plugs to use in that.

Champion RV15YC4 plugs supposedly, but i cant get a straight answer. Anyone ??
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Old Feb 13, 2017 | 05:18 PM
  #33  
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Car: 1986 Camaro Z28
Engine: TPI 305 CI 5.0L V8 LB9
Transmission: AUTO 4 SPD 700 R4
Axle/Gears: 3.23 RATIO
Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Originally Posted by gta_knight
I give up on all the compatability things when trying to order plugs, Rock Auto tells me one thing, ebay tells me another, a US parts supplier here in the UK tells me a 3rd thing !!!

I run Champion RV17YC plugs in my 87 GTA, HOWEVER...... i also recently aquired an 84 Trans Am with the stock 305 H.O. engine and cant get a straight answer what plugs to use in that.

Champion RV15YC4 plugs supposedly, but i cant get a straight answer. Anyone ??
Did you end up getting an answer? Just curious to know because I'm planning on buying some champion spark plugs for my 86 z28 tpi 5.0.
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Old Feb 13, 2017 | 08:55 PM
  #34  
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From: Perth Western Australia
Car: 1987 Z28 Camaro
Engine: 305 LG4 4bbl
Transmission: TH700R4
Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Got headers? i do. i threw some of the shorties in it. love them as its now possible to get a plug socket on them

this change took about 15 mins as opposed to hours on end

https://www.summitracing.com/int/par...5/model/camaro
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Old Feb 14, 2017 | 02:19 PM
  #35  
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Car: 1987 GTA
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Re: Best/Recommended Spark Plugs

Originally Posted by marcial88
Did you end up getting an answer? Just curious to know because I'm planning on buying some champion spark plugs for my 86 z28 tpi 5.0.
It was the champion RV15YC4 plugs i got for the 84 mate, but if you have a TPI motor you will probably need the RV17YC ones like i run in my 87 TPI
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