C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

MSD and spark plug gap

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Old Mar 12, 2005 | 09:09 AM
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Default MSD and spark plug gap

OK, I have the MSD 6AL box and wonder what others are gapping their plugs at, factory setting is .035", but the info below suggest that a wider gap is possible

Are you guys gapping mroe than .035"


From the MSD site
Spark Plugs: Choosing the correct spark plug design and heat range is important when trying to get the best performance possible. Since there are so many engine combinations and manufacturers, MSD does not recommend which plug or gap is exactly right for your application. It is recommended to follow the engine builder or manufacturer’s specification for spark plugs. With that, you can then experiment with the plug gap to obtain the best performance. The gap of the plugs can be opened in 0.005" increments, then tested until the best performance is obtained. MSD judges the plug gap by compression and components.

These examples are just starting points to get you going in the right direction. Every application is different and should be tested and tuned.
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Old Mar 12, 2005 | 09:44 AM
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In my Nova with a 406 (and a 6AL box) I always ran .045. The MSD will make more power in your system allowing a larger gap. However, don't go too big. If you have higher compression or are running N20, you may actually want to go smaller because the increased cylinder pressure can make it harder to light the air/fuel in the combusion chamber.
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Old Mar 12, 2005 | 11:25 AM
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Cool, I have a 10.9:1 so I may try to go to .040" and try that.
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Old Mar 12, 2005 | 11:38 AM
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It sounds like somebody's getting close!
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Old Mar 12, 2005 | 11:43 AM
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I run .060 with no problems whatsoever. Approximately 10.5:1, no boost, no nitrous.
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Old Mar 12, 2005 | 05:07 PM
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Close to stock 85 L98 (for now), currently running .45 gap "cut back" plug. Runs fine.
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Old Mar 12, 2005 | 06:46 PM
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Originally Posted by Caboboy
It sounds like somebody's getting close!
I fired it up Friday, then shut it down to do some tweaking and cleaning up of the wiring etc,,,, by next Saturday,,,
barring more snow , I COULD be on the road!
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Old Mar 13, 2005 | 04:00 AM
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i left mine the same runs perfect
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Old Mar 13, 2005 | 04:29 PM
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I go .45 on the stock ignition, I might try .50 with the box....
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Old Mar 13, 2005 | 05:31 PM
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Originally Posted by Ramanstud
I go .45 on the stock ignition, I might try .50 with the box....
Cool, I looks like I can experiment some with this.
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