The Spark Plug Gap Is NOT Critical (With SHOCKING Proof)

Lawn mower won't start? Are you told your spark plug gap is the problem? I'm experimenting with wildly wrong spark plug gaps to see if they work. Testing plugs that are WAY out of spec, both too big and too small! I think the results will "SHOCK" you, LOL....

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[StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

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[jvalentine]

It's true that a wider gap will also work especially if the engine gives a good strong spark but the larger plasma arch will eat away at the electrodes much quicker . The spark gap is a compromise between the two . That's what I learnt in my motorcycle racing days . If the gap is too small small pieces of vaporized metal and carbon will build between the gap and eventually short it .

[vanderpoolfarmsl.l.c.]

I am always amazed at how many people talk about changing their sparkplugs every year or even less.
My 2011 ford Ranger with 32000 miles on it has a replacement recommendation of 105000 miles.
I am however happy that they support our sparkplug manufacturers and keep them in business.

[benbaselet]

It's good to know that the gap isn't that critical! The specs sure are splitting hairs usually. But.
Now I want to see Project Farm test a variety of different gaps for fuel efficiency, torque and how they perform after a longer duration and get sooty :-)

[phildelgiudice]

Amazing you still generate content Steve. We appreciate you out there!!

[ronwatson]

You are definately a cool mechanic. I've always been of the same mind. If a spark plug has a gap it's close enough. I run Fram filters in my truck too..No problem in over 50 years. Thanks Steve!

[rickwashek]

Good one Steve. I would not have known that until you showed us. I never really worried about having gap perfect. I just usually guess at it I basically make sure gap is reasonable. Just like when I sharpen a blade I never worry to much about the balance. I hang it on nail and if it's fairly level I go with it.

[pauldiesel]

Good video Steve! I agree with your points. I have never seen anyone start or experienced myself starting a neglected engine and worried about the spark gap, short of extreme fouling or damage. If it sparks it will ignite!

[fredsmith]

If the gap is too tight the plugs can foul easily and you can have no spark until they are cleaned. Too wide and it may not work with a weak coil. It's not critical but it's best to have them gapped at 25 to 30 thou or what the maker says.

[Saxondog]

Nice to see you back on YouTube Steve.

[KensSmallEngineRepair]

Gaps are more important on multi cylinder engines where misfiring can occur. Single cylinders don’t care as much but may lose power and efficiency if too small or large a gap. Cool vid Steve!

[steveosullivan]

Saw this video and needed to so some weed whacking. It was sputtering a tad and not the same power I was accustom to. Boom what a difference a fresh plug makes on an old machine. Once again I have followed the same over wintering routines that Steve has recommended over the years. Mainly storing with fresh gas and starting at least once a month. Cold damp spring in Oregon this year, yet the yard equip. still humming along. Thanks Steve, my stuff is old from the early 2000's, still doing the job.

[Davidraisedsimmentalcows.]

Thank you Steve, really appreciate the information on spark plugs. Great videos that are helpful.

[jimcharb]

Steve you're the spark that ignites all these vids.

[POOKIE]

I would like to see these tested under a load (i.e. some tall grass) to see if there are performance issues with either one. I may try this experiment too.

[seanfraser]

Dude, love your channel.
Im in BC too (east kootenays) and finding a deceny small engine repair guy is a crap shoot.
Youve put me on the right path more than once.
Cheers, bud.

[MissouriOzarkHillbilly]

If everything else is right, then the plug gap is just a suggestion. However, a weak coil will rear its ugly head if the gap is too much. Likewise, if the motor is using oil, a small gap will foul more easily. I have some old outboards dating from the 1920's through the 1950's. The factory spec on oil ratio is 1/2 pint of oil per gallon of gas. One goes so far as to require 1 full pintg per gallon-yes, an 8 to 1 ratio. Somehow, I don't think these motors would run very long with
plugs gapped at .010

[travisbeck]

So I was just talking about plugs today. I was trying to.find out why it is important to use the "correct" I normally just Find a new one that looks like it and I have not had a problom yet. What can happen not using what th we oem recommend? Thanks so much for your chanel. I have learned a ton from you and fix things I normally get for free. Im getting pretty confident in my work for the most part, and what to look for because of you

[RepairGang]

Glad you made this video I thought about it but I was afraid people would call me out

[Ronick-Q-]

Nice one Steve, I did think the gap was important than what it is. 👍