PLUGS in my 2004 GRAND PRIX

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I have 75,000 on my 2004 Pontiac grand prix 3800. Is it about time for plugs ?

and what brand should I use ? NGK ... they are great in my

2 Stroke stuff.

Thanks
Steve
 
Yeah, I'm liking the way NGK's are working in '02 Cavalier. Get 'em if you've had success with them already....
 
What does your owner's manual suggest when it comes to spark plug replacement interval? A lot of cars recommend 100k miles nowadays - not saying whether that's right or wrong, just saying. :)

NGK makes good stuff.
 
IMO, I use only AC Delco plugs in GM cars. I also wouldn't bother changing the plugs in your Grand Prix until 100K miles.

I've got Autolite's in my Cherokee 4.0, but nothing but AC for my GM.
 
I have good luck with autolites in my GM apps. have standard coppers in my Roadmaster and the platinums in the cavalier.
 
OEM AC Delco 91-101

I would change at 80k, it's a good safety margin. Make sure you change the wires at the same time, they won't come off easily.

If the car is boosted or is not stock I would drop a heat range though.
 
I'd use the factory brand plugs.
I have nothing against NGK quality or price, but the heat range of their version may be different.
Why rock the boat when you have obvious success?
Your plugs are probably serviceable still, but when you get a chance, new ones are a pretty good idea about now.
And don't be afraid to check the gap as some are frightened to do, simply use care.
 
Originally Posted By: Rudy1999 250
where should I get the wires at ?

STOCK ?

I like Jacobs wires ..have had great luck with the stuff.



I have always purchased and used cheap spark plug wires for many miles and have had 0 problems in many vehicles. I always use something like the 8mm Belden (sp?) ones from Napa. I don't spend much more than 30 bucks for a set of 4.
 
In 3.8's I've had the best luck with AC Delco platinums. Don't go a full 100k on them though, no more than about 75k. They don't last as long as the OEM recommends, and even if they did they usually get seized in the block and are a bear to remove. Always use anti-seize compound on the thread.
 
I bought the 99 cent Al605's for my GTP when it was close to stock,and then tried AL104's when it got the 3/4 pulley. No problem, and 33 mpg on the highway.
 
Sorry, 3.4 pulley for the SC. If you look under the car, and find the rear 02 sensor, you will see something we cal the U-bend, delete it, and get 5 hp plus better mpGg. Other than that, intake, seafoam,and this was at 70 plus, according to the DIC and the pencil. Got 30 highway with a leakng fuel filter. Clean them up, let them breath,and they will treat you right.
 
The AC plugs that I replaced in my Buick were made by NGK so I doubt there is much difference between OEM and NGK. Both should work fine.
 
I agree with the 75k change you want to do. See the bullentin below - depending on your driving and other criteria the plugs may not make 100k. Add to this that the ignition has to work harder on worn plugs. I'd replace them with a new set (and wires too) and be good for a long while.



Service Information 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix | Grand Prix (VIN W) Service Manual | Document ID: 1809214
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#PIP3069C: Information - Iridium and Platinum Tip Spark Plug Maintenance - keywords 30K major minor preventative removal remove replacement tune up - (Apr 4, 2006)


Subject: Information - Iridium and Platinum Tip Spark Plug Maintenance


Models: All GM Passenger Cars and Trucks

with Iridium or Platinum Tipped Spark Plugs




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.

Condition/Concern:
The information below was originally sent to all GM Dealers on October 14, 1999 as a DCS message. This information applies to all vehicles equipped with Iridium or Platinum Tipped Spark Plugs.

Recommendation/Instructions:
Iridium and Platinum tipped spark plugs are designed to operate under normal vehicle operating conditions for up to 100,000 miles (160,000 kilometers) without periodic maintenance. As stated in the owner's manual, maintenance needs may vary because of all the different ways people use their vehicles. As a result, more frequent inspections and replacements may be needed if the vehicle is operated in extreme conditions.

When no engine performance concerns are present, Iridium and Platinum tipped spark plugs should not be removed for periodic inspection and cleaning of threads, doing so may compromise the spark plug's ability to withstand their corrosive environment. The threaded area, although not sealed, serves as a protective environment against most harmful elements. Removing and cleaning spark plugs will introduce metallic debris and brush scrapings into the thread area which may further the corrosion process.

Chromate coated spark plugs should not be wire brushed or handled in any way once they are put in service. Chromium topcoats form a protective oxide on spark plugs that is not effective if scratched. Both coated and uncoated spark plugs will have the best chance of surviving a corrosive environment if they are left in position. Attempts to maintain spark plugs by removing them and cleaning the threads can actually create the corrosive condition that the procedure was intended to prevent.

Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION


© 2008 General Motors Corporation. All rights reserved.
 
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