This just came up in another thread...but I'm considering getting the MSD 6A and I would like to know this before I make the purchase. My question is...Does anybody currently (or in the past) have an MSD 6A box running with AC Delco RapidFires? If so, have you had any complaints like quicker wear on your plugs? Misfires?

I still want to get the MSD 6A, but I'm wondering whether I'm going to need to swap out my Rapidfires for regular AC Delco plugs.

Thanks guys

 

Nobody has this combo?!?

 

We recommend using a standard plug with any high output CD ignition. The reason being is these plugs are designed with thinner electrode style generally have sharper edges on the electrode and normally retain more heat then a standard plug. This being said, potential problems with detonation and or pre-ignition is increased. If you go to an aftermarket ignition, it is highly recommended that you use a standard plug not a "HYPE" plug.

Thanks,

Joe

MSD tech

 

Thanks...that's exactly what I need to know. I'll make sure to get a standard set of AC Delco's before getting the 6A.

 

I had that combo......went back to standard plugs.

 

I haven't bought the 6A yet...and I'm not in a huge rush. So it looks like I'll wait until I need a plug change before I go and buy one. Thanks.

 

I have an MSD 6AL box in my car with Rapidfires. I have not had any trouble with them. However, it is hard to argue with an MSD tech guy.

I'll make one pointin favor of the Rapidfires...all those sharp edges on the center electrode. I have worked with high voltage electronic products for many years and I know all about how sharp edges enhance the ability of high voltage arcs to form. So to me, the theory behind the Rapidfires is sound.

Like I mentioned earlier though, it is hard to argue with MSD tech advice.

Chuck
85 IROC

 

I'm not going to argue to the MSD Tech...he would have no reason to lie, so I'm gonna take his word for it. I like the Rapidfires so I'm gonna put off buying the 6A until my next plug change, at which time I'll get regular plugs. The Rapidfires are less than a year old, so their still good for a while.

 

C. Doyle,

You are completely correct, the sharp edges do make it easier to jump the gap. the problem with sharp edges in general in a cylinder especially with a high performance application is those edges create potential hot spots. Those spots can created pre-ignition which can be detrimental to the motor. I talk to people daily that use "HYPE" plugs with our units and that is fine you may not ever have a problem, but I do explain the potential for problems and recommend that the next time they change plugs to use a standard plug one to two steps colder then stock. I also explain that even though you may not have a problem right now as the plug wears with normal use that they need to pay attention that the problem does not pop up down the road. Again it is not that they will not work, it is that to potential for problems is there and you need to watch for it. There are special race plugs that have an extremely thin center and ground electrode to help ease ionization across the gap in high boost or compression applications. The however wear out very quickly, are not designed for prolonged driving. I hope I have not created an issue with this, I just don't want to see people spend 50-100 dollars on a set of plugs that do not perform any better then a standard plug and can have problems.

Thanks,

Joe
MSD tech