Choose the Right Spark Plug for Your Commercial Vehicle

A spark plug is a key component to start and run your commercial vehicle. They are often made of three different types of metals. Choosing the right plug for a vehicle can be a difficult task, especially for people with no prior knowledge. This is why we made an article explaining how to choose the right spark plug for your commercial vehicle with an in-depth explanation of plugs and their types.

What Are Spark Plugs?

A spark plug is a vital component for a vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine (ICE) which means diesel, petrol or even CMG engines. If you own a commercial vehicle that uses one of these fuel types then you may already know about them and what they do.

Spark plugs perform two important functions in a commercial vehicle. The first and main function is to provide a spark to ignite the air/fuel combination in an ICE. This simply means that the spark plug starts and runs the engine.

The second function is to transfer heat from the combustion chamber to the engine’s cooling system. This function helps prevent the engine from overheating.

They usually need to be replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 km for a truck to work. To choose the right spark plug for your commercial vehicle you first need to know all the different types of plugs available in the market.

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Types of Spark Plugs

Matching your engine design is the most important detail in choosing the right spark plug for your commercial vehicle. These plugs are made of three different metals: Copper, Platinum and Iridium.

The metal in the plug needs to meet the requirements of your commercial vehicle. The best spark plug for your commercial vehicle is always the one that the manufacturer recommends. Their three main types are discussed below.

1. Copper Spark Plug

Copper spark plugs are a standard and most common choice for small commercial vehicles. Copper plugs have a nickel-alloy outer material fused to copper core electrodes. They offer many advantages and disadvantages over other plugs.

The main advantage of copper plugs is their lower price. They also have high conductivity which is why some high performance vehicle still uses them. The main disadvantage of copper plugs is their shorter lifespan. Additionally, copper plugs aren’t ideal for heavy duty commercial vehicles.

2. Platinum Spark Plug

Platinum spark plugs are more durable than copper plugs. Platinum plugs have two different varieties: single and double platinum. The single platinum plug has a platinum disc welded to the centre electrode. The double platinum however has platinum discs on both ends. Platinum plugs have a 2-3 times longer lifespan than copper plugs.

3. Iridium Spark Plug

Iridium spark plugs are said to be six times harder and eight times stronger than platinum plugs. They are suitable for heavy duty commercial vehicles. They can last 25% longer than platinum plugs and also have a 700-degree higher melting point. Iridium plugs are more expensive than copper and platinum plugs.

These are all the types of plugs available for commercial vehicles. Below we will discuss how to choose the right spark plug for your commercial vehicle.

How to Choose the Right Spark Plug for Your Commercial Vehicle

The tips to choose the right spark plug for your commercial vehicle are discussed below in detail.

Understanding Your Engine

Understanding your engine is the most important step in choosing the right spark plug for your commercial vehicle. To begin with, you need the engine details of the commercial vehicle including fuel type, make and model.

The second piece of information required is the heat range of the engine. For high performance engines, a hotter plug is recommended. For standard engines, a cold plug will suffice.

Operating Conditions of Your Commercial Vehicle

For different climates, a different plug is recommended. A warmer climate requires a colder plug while a colder climate requires a hotter plug.

You may need a platinum or iridium plug if you travel long distances or use commercial vehicles for heavy workloads.

Additionally, the best plug for your commercial vehicle might also depend on its fuel type.

Commercial Vehicle Performance

The right plug also depends upon the type of vehicle you own. Always choose a copper or platinum plug for a small commercial vehicle. For heavy commercial vehicles, an iridium plug is more compatible.

Consider electrode design before purchasing a plug. Spark plugs are available in single and double electrode designs as mentioned earlier.

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Availability and Budget

Some of the factors in choosing the right spark plug for your commercial vehicle are your budget and their future availability. The budget can be managed by comparing the cost and life expectancy of the plug. Make sure to confirm the chosen plug is available for future replacements.

Conclusion

To sum it up, spark plugs are essential for commercial vehicles. They are needed to start and run the engine of a commercial vehicle. To choose the right spark plug for your commercial vehicle you need information regarding its engine, spark plug types and materials.