Wow, that was probably the best video I’ve seen on RUclips. Keeps it simple while still giving a thorough explanation of what to look for and why. The thing I probably appreciate most is that there are no gimmicks. He’s not trying to be a damn comedian or talk show host like a lot of these other clowns that put out instructional videos. I sincerely thank you for sharing that with us.
He didn't understand the question because it was a stupid question... because reading plugs is a stupid concept. Do you know how many plugs you would have to go through to get a reading at all the different load/rpm points of the engine?!
Appreciate you taking the time to do these videos Steve. You’re a busy dude but sharing your wealth of experience is hugely appreciated by us average weekend warriors! This was super-helpful!
I'm with DIS GUY ,WE WEEKEND & WEEKDAY "WARRIORS" (I LIKE DA COMPARISON CUZ WE BATTLE W/PROBLEMS!!) BUT Mr.Steve You da Man @ explaining,teaching and even da brother to us DIY'ers for da love u show by SHARING UR KNOWLEDGE!! YOU ARE THE EPIPHANY OF A TRUE FRIEND AND MAN ,THANK YOU SIR FOR JUST BEING AND SHOWING ,WHAT DIS WORLD "LACKS"!! THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU !! (wasn't trying to make u a saint but ur actions obligated me to speak up!! Anyone who reads dis I HOPE ALL YA'LL HAVE A BLESSED LIFE !!
Pisses me off knowing how much i would have picked up at the track knowing this. Was always told wrong on where timing mark should be on ground strap. Best video ive seen
Thank you, I have watched and researched many plug Vids this one is by far the most informal and straight forward I actually understood, Iam new to reading and tuning my car but I am getting it.
Your video is one of the most clear and concise, when it comes to explaining this. I pulled my plugs this afternoon to check my freshly built, boosted motor, and your tutorial helped immensely. I was worried that I had too much timing, and you helped resolve that. Thank you sir.
Thanks Steve! was looking for this and this is the only one I found that explains this perfectly. So much thanks. Going through timing atm on my LY6 and will be pulling plugs after a straight I know with no one around :)
Priceless knowledge!!!! You guys need to get your engine parts section fixed on your website. I'm strongly thinking of finally getting around to my Nova. It's been too long and I really need the stress relief and my sons want to see the project started again. Thanks for the info!
On point Steve, thank you for posting this, all too many people ignore this very basic tuning tool, another is looking in the exhaust pipe outlet(s) along with the plugs these two seemingly mundane items do get overlooked in favor of as you pointed out "instrumentation". Just as a side note, spark plug reading can be skewed if the wrong heat range is chosen thereby masking what is really happening, my experience is most people use way too cold of a plug somehow thinking it will gain something when in reality you need to use the hottest plug possible (without blistering the strap or porcelain) to actually arrive at plug readings that do reflect the tuning of the fuel/timing combination.
Awesome video man thank you for your help. I have been a gear head for years building cars but just now getting into refining my toon and this is a huge help.
If one places new spark plugs in a four cylinder car, how many miles of driving would it be good to pull a spark plug out to be able to read what a spark plug is telling us about the engine condition? Thank you for this video. Its one of the best ones.
Steve i have a 406ci sbc street car and i was wonder why plug 1 doesn't show a burn on the strap while plug 7 shows burn in the middle of the top of the strap. What would cause this difference?
A hotter plug is good for cold weather and short trips, but are prone to overheating your engine and detonation is super hot climates. So a cold plug is suitable for those hotter temperatures to keep the engine cooler and reduce pre-ignition.
Great Video! On a normal street car how to you recommend running the car before pulling the plugs to check? Take it out and run a 1/4 mile, then drive it home (3-5 miles or so) and check? or Take it out and run it 1/8-1/4, shut it off as soon as possible and check plugs on side of road? I know at a track or event it is easy, but it is always hard to have access to that.
Sorry if this has been covered, I did not read all 109 of the comments. It would be great if you did a supplement to this video on finding the correct spark plug heat range. Thanks!
This is great info for wo throttle. But what should the plug look like on a street car at cruise 60 mph? Should the line be 50 thousands at cruise and a 100 thousand at wo? Thanks
My color mark on the strap is just past the bend...before it was right above the base thread which is where you show the "sweat spot"....my question is this...do we change the curve or just the total timing figure. MSD distributor so its easy to switch out springs....i can add back the 2° only and look at the strap again...fyi its 22° base 10° bushing in the distributor.... I pulled 2° of initial and back to 2 heavy springs which moved the color line on the bend of the strap.
So my next question would be, timing on the strap related. How will spark plug head range affect location of the timing mark on the strap. What's to look for and at what point to you move up or down in plug head range.
I was always told you wanted the plugs “on a carbureted engine” to be tan. Maybe that’s for a stock engine? On my modified engine 383 stroker with 10:1- 10.2:1 compression my plugs look like this NGK #5 is a stock heat range for a 350 I’m using NGK #6 heat range The ground strap is a grayish white with the timing mark at the bottom of the strap by the threads. The porcelain is white “it an extended electrode” I’ll have to look down inside I forgot to do that. And the ledge that the ground strap is welded to is black. Does that sound like it’s too lean to you? I’m planning on installing a #7 to see what that does.
If been reading my plugs this way for over 40 years. I look for a ring of color at the base of the porcelain. It’s very ez to see on a very cold plug since the porcelain is right at the top but it still needs to be there. The ground strap as he stated and the the 2 top threads will direct you to the timing. Those threads were really coked up indicating rich. On that engine it’s easier to adjust the timing 2 degrees versus changing jets (bypass) if I was a clean shutoff.
Steve... thanks for a cogent description of plug "reading". Question... how long do new plugs have to run in the engine for the "reading" to be representative of the combustion process?
Steve, thanks for sharing. Subscribed! Please help the novice understand how to determine the correct heat range. Also, will hotter plug show timing mark closer to threads on the strap with same timing setting?
Very good question, because other sources refer to the ground strap mark as an indicator of the spark plug ( correct/ incorrect)heat range . Whatever if you pull out the OEM spark plugs from some fuel injected , ECU timing advance controlled , factory tuned,properly working,passenger car engine , the ground strap heat mark will be right in the middle and air/ fuel ratio(the dark ring on the visible base of internal part of ceramic insulator) indicator will be 2-2.5 mm wide .
I have a question for you ?? Can you interchange the porcelain part in another screw? Unstead of spending a least 300$-450$ to get a repair helicoil kit, or to the mechanic! What do you think!?
this is amazing! can i use the same spark plug for multiple tests and literally watch the ring go down? or do i need to use new spark plugs for each reading?
That is probably the most accurate thing I have ever heard. "If your tuner does not check the plugs, he is NOT a tuner he is a computer guy" .
Lol! True.
Thanks Steve, best video I have seen describing reading a plug. It’s amazing how many people have zero clue how to read timing on a plug.
Literally been looking for a good explanation on how to read plugs for years. Finally found it. Thank you 🙏
this is for 4 strokes two strokes are a different breed
By far the best and most useful short description of reading a spark plug I have encountered. Thank you.
Finally a video about reading plugs that doesn't leave me more confused. TY! great info.
Wow, that was probably the best video I’ve seen on RUclips. Keeps it simple while still giving a thorough explanation of what to look for and why. The thing I probably appreciate most is that there are no gimmicks. He’s not trying to be a damn comedian or talk show host like a lot of these other clowns that put out instructional videos. I sincerely thank you for sharing that with us.
Saving.
I asked a tuner how to read plugs, he did not understand my question.
Thanks for the great video.
He didn't understand the question because it was a stupid question... because reading plugs is a stupid concept. Do you know how many plugs you would have to go through to get a reading at all the different load/rpm points of the engine?!
One of the best 6+ minutes on youtube.
Better than most 1 hour vids.
Appreciate you taking the time to do these videos Steve. You’re a busy dude but sharing your wealth of experience is hugely appreciated by us average weekend warriors! This was super-helpful!
I'm with DIS GUY ,WE WEEKEND & WEEKDAY "WARRIORS" (I LIKE DA COMPARISON CUZ WE BATTLE W/PROBLEMS!!) BUT Mr.Steve You da Man @ explaining,teaching and even da brother to us DIY'ers for da love u show by SHARING UR KNOWLEDGE!! YOU ARE THE EPIPHANY OF A TRUE FRIEND AND MAN ,THANK YOU SIR FOR JUST BEING AND SHOWING ,WHAT DIS WORLD "LACKS"!! THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU !! (wasn't trying to make u a saint but ur actions obligated me to speak up!! Anyone who reads dis I HOPE ALL YA'LL HAVE A BLESSED LIFE !!
Best plug reading explanation ever. Thanks Steve.
Pisses me off knowing how much i would have picked up at the track knowing this. Was always told wrong on where timing mark should be on ground strap. Best video ive seen
Thank you, I have watched and researched many plug Vids this one is by far the most informal and straight forward I actually understood, Iam new to reading and tuning my car but I am getting it.
This is by far the best information on spark plug reading I have ever seen. Thank you so much Steve.
Your video is one of the most clear and concise, when it comes to explaining this. I pulled my plugs this afternoon to check my freshly built, boosted motor, and your tutorial helped immensely. I was worried that I had too much timing, and you helped resolve that. Thank you sir.
This is hands down the best explanation ever!
I should have known Steve would have the best explanation on reading plugs
Might just be one of the better sparkplug reader vids I've seen. Thanks. Subb.................
This makes more sense to me than all of the other information I found. Thank you!
Simple and straight to the point,thank you
Thanks Steve! was looking for this and this is the only one I found that explains this perfectly. So much thanks. Going through timing atm on my LY6 and will be pulling plugs after a straight I know with no one around :)
this is THE best tip Ive ever heard on reading spark plugs! thank you!
Best video I’ve ever seen on spark plugs !
Wow i was always wondering and now i know. Awsome work
Great vid and very informative, thanks!
Thank you Stev. For the refreshing my mind. It’s great that you have made these videos to help people learn. Cain hard guys.
Steve you really know your shit and your products show it.
Priceless knowledge!!!! You guys need to get your engine parts section fixed on your website. I'm strongly thinking of finally getting around to my Nova. It's been too long and I really need the stress relief and my sons want to see the project started again. Thanks for the info!
The best spark plug video I’ve ever seen! So helpful.
On point Steve, thank you for posting this, all too many people ignore this very basic tuning tool, another is looking in the exhaust pipe outlet(s) along with the plugs these two seemingly mundane items do get overlooked in favor of as you pointed out "instrumentation".
Just as a side note, spark plug reading can be skewed if the wrong heat range is chosen thereby masking what is really happening, my experience is most people use way too cold of a plug somehow thinking it will gain something when in reality you need to use the hottest plug possible (without blistering the strap or porcelain) to actually arrive at plug readings that do reflect the tuning of the fuel/timing combination.
Awesome video man thank you for your help. I have been a gear head for years building cars but just now getting into refining my toon and this is a huge help.
Love all your videos absolutely spot on man love learning from all your knowledge you share with us!
Never thought to cut open a spark plug. I've been schooled. 😮
DIY - Instead of a lathe, put the plug in a vise. Use a 5/8 holesaw to cut the crimp off the top of the plug base and slide the porcelain out.
Wow that makes perfect sense.
Thanks.
Steve, thank you so much for sharing such valuable information, it's very kind of you!
Best Video to understand timing & fuel
If one places new spark plugs in a four cylinder car, how many miles of driving would it be good to pull a spark plug out to be able to read what a spark plug is telling us about the engine condition?
Thank you for this video. Its one of the best ones.
Awesome video! Spark plug reading FINALLY made simple!
Steve dig all your videos very educational thanks for doing them..i learn something off each one you do...
Steve i have a 406ci sbc street car and i was wonder why plug 1 doesn't show a burn on the strap while plug 7 shows burn in the middle of the top of the strap. What would cause this difference?
Best video I have seen on the net.
This is exactly the info I was looking for.
Thx Steve.
If I woulda known you were gonna give all this information away for free on RUclips I would have waited instead of buying all your videos back in 14
And my video suggestion is carb tuning,,,,jets, bleeds, emulsion etc,,,would love to hear from guy like you
Best yet no music or bs Thank you😊😊
Nice video- thanks for taking the time to make it-Jerry
Great shout thanks
Very informational,once again... ty Steve!!!
Good advice, I think a more indepth would be beneficial for all. Lean, ritch, good. Thanks for the video
How big of an impact does the proper heat range have on all of those tips?
A hotter plug is good for cold weather and short trips, but are prone to overheating your engine and detonation is super hot climates. So a cold plug is suitable for those hotter temperatures to keep the engine cooler and reduce pre-ignition.
Fantastic info Steve, your videos are awesome 👏
Great explanation.
Good video.
When I get ready to tuna fish I'm calling you. 👍😁
Another great informational video Steve 👍
Great Video! On a normal street car how to you recommend running the car before pulling the plugs to check? Take it out and run a 1/4 mile, then drive it home (3-5 miles or so) and check? or Take it out and run it 1/8-1/4, shut it off as soon as possible and check plugs on side of road? I know at a track or event it is easy, but it is always hard to have access to that.
Had to watch this video again great info thanks Steve🙏
One of your best videos
"Pig fat rich" 😅😅 Love this stuff! Wish I could see one for M1 fuel😎
Great video, thanks for sharing this. Sums up reading plugs excellently !!
Phenominal video/information. Thank you.
Hey Steve, great video!!! Does this apply to all combustion applications? How about 2 strokes? Thank you.
Learn something new every day.
Good information
Sorry if this has been covered, I did not read all 109 of the comments. It would be great if you did a supplement to this video on finding the correct spark plug heat range. Thanks!
Wonderful video! Thanks for the tech tip
Very informative thanks for the explanation.
Great video Steve very informative mate 👍
Thanks for the video You ROCK
Good stuff Steve
Steve thanks you’re a great teacher
This is great info for wo throttle. But what should the plug look like on a street car at cruise 60 mph? Should the line be 50 thousands at cruise and a 100 thousand at wo? Thanks
Thank you for sharing.
Good tips. I'm going to pull my plugs now.
Good spark plug reading tools. Trying to find a good one
My color mark on the strap is just past the bend...before it was right above the base thread which is where you show the "sweat spot"....my question is this...do we change the curve or just the total timing figure.
MSD distributor so its easy to switch out springs....i can add back the 2° only and look at the strap again...fyi its 22° base 10° bushing in the distributor....
I pulled 2° of initial and back to 2 heavy springs which moved the color line on the bend of the strap.
Awesome! Thank you!
Just finished pushing my chopper home 2 miles in the blasting sun because I am a idiot and forgot to read my plugs.
Awesome explanation on straptech!
So my next question would be, timing on the strap related. How will spark plug head range affect location of the timing mark on the strap. What's to look for and at what point to you move up or down in plug head range.
I was always told you wanted the plugs “on a carbureted engine” to be tan.
Maybe that’s for a stock engine?
On my modified engine 383 stroker with 10:1- 10.2:1 compression my plugs look like this
NGK #5 is a stock heat range for a 350
I’m using NGK #6 heat range
The ground strap is a grayish white with the timing mark at the bottom of the strap by the threads.
The porcelain is white “it an extended electrode” I’ll have to look down inside I forgot to do that.
And the ledge that the ground strap is welded to is black.
Does that sound like it’s too lean to you?
I’m planning on installing a #7 to see what that does.
Hell yeah Steve Morris
If been reading my plugs this way for over 40 years. I look for a ring of color at the base of the porcelain. It’s very ez to see on a very cold plug since the porcelain is right at the top but it still needs to be there. The ground strap as he stated and the the 2 top threads will direct you to the timing. Those threads were really coked up indicating rich.
On that engine it’s easier to adjust the timing 2 degrees versus changing jets (bypass) if I was a clean shutoff.
thanks, i'm not a mechanic or do anything with cars but i enjoyed the info
Would a hotter or colder plug show a different read on same tune up?
Outstanding video. Thank you.
Excellent video! Great info…thank you sir
Would you do a show on reading methanol plugs please?
Great info Steve.
Excellent tips and tricks video.
Steve... thanks for a cogent description of plug "reading". Question... how long do new plugs have to run in the engine for the "reading" to be representative of the combustion process?
Steve, thanks for sharing. Subscribed! Please help the novice understand how to determine the correct heat range. Also, will hotter plug show timing mark closer to threads on the strap with same timing setting?
Very good question, because other sources refer to the ground strap mark as an indicator of the spark plug ( correct/ incorrect)heat range . Whatever if you pull out the OEM spark plugs from some fuel injected , ECU timing advance controlled , factory tuned,properly working,passenger car engine , the ground strap heat mark will be right in the middle and air/ fuel ratio(the dark ring on the visible base of internal part of ceramic insulator)
indicator will be 2-2.5 mm wide .
I aim to have the burn mark just at the end of the strap bend going down. Not all the way to touching the threads.
Great Job, Ty.
Facts great video gonna save it steve
I have a question for you ??
Can you interchange the porcelain part in another screw?
Unstead of spending a least 300$-450$ to get a repair helicoil kit, or to the mechanic! What do you think!?
Good video!!!!!
Best explanation ever
Great one. Thank you very much..
Why is my porcelain yellowish orange ? Running 93 pump on 11:1 LS with NGK TR6 plugs .. mabey go to 7s?
Omg, thanks a lot 🤝 very good explanation
great info
Thank you Steave.
this is amazing! can i use the same spark plug for multiple tests and literally watch the ring go down? or do i need to use new spark plugs for each reading?
Great question. I'm curious about that too
What if the ground strap is white at the bottom, brown at the bend, and perfectly clean silver at the tip?