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Spark plug recommendation

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Old Mar 24, 2017 | 09:54 AM
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Default Spark plug recommendation

I've got a 1980 with the GM 290 HP SBC crate engine in it. The motor has an RV cam but retains the Q-jet and HEI ignition. I put shorty headers and dual 2.5 inch exhaust to match the higher output motor. It's time to get it ready for another season of cruising and I've got the plugs out. What's a good plug to use these days? I've got conventional plugs (AC) in it now and they look pretty clean after 20K miles.
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Old Mar 24, 2017 | 10:14 AM
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whatever is convenient, ac, autolite etc
Expensive plugs wont make you more power just poorer
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Old Mar 24, 2017 | 10:36 AM
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If they only have 20k on them, and they look good, put them back in and be happy. Otherwise go buy a set of the same plugs and install them. The AC's are correct for the engine. Cuisinart is correct, expensive plugs are not going to change anything you will notice, other than in your pocket book.
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Old Mar 24, 2017 | 10:56 AM
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Autolite AP26 or NGK
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Old Mar 25, 2017 | 12:32 PM
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regardless of manufacturer claims, you will see no performance or mileage benefit from a $6 sparkplug over a $2 plug or from one brand over the other. ... the $6 ones will just last longer.. so, ask yourself, how much do I drive it, and how often do I want to pull plugs? ..
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Old Mar 25, 2017 | 12:47 PM
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Originally Posted by mfpvette80
I've got a 1980 with the GM 290 HP SBC crate engine in it. The motor has an RV cam but retains the Q-jet and HEI ignition. I put shorty headers and dual 2.5 inch exhaust to match the higher output motor. It's time to get it ready for another season of cruising and I've got the plugs out. What's a good plug to use these days? I've got conventional plugs (AC) in it now and they look pretty clean after 20K miles.
What is a RV cam?
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Old Mar 25, 2017 | 01:11 PM
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RV cam is a step up from stock, for better mid range torque in heavy vehicles (trucks, RVs). But are ok for low compression small valve heads, like stock vettes.

Last edited by mikem350; Mar 25, 2017 at 01:12 PM.
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Old Mar 25, 2017 | 03:04 PM
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I installed Denso spark plugs.
They were reasonably priced and engine runs smoothly.
http://www.globaldenso.com/cgi-bin/g...&action=search

You can spend more on fancy platinum ones but it is up to you.
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Old Mar 27, 2017 | 08:47 AM
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I understand that there's little to no "performance" upgrade achieved with various plugs. I suppose I should have worded my question to ask for plugs that are known to be reliable. It's been a long time since I bought any and quality issues can creep-in when companies are bought, sold, or merged. Thanks for getting me up-to-date on this topic.
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