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Originally Posted by porsche986spyder
Thanks for the info, but what about this. It seems that since the 3.2 has more power that it may run a colder spark plug. Anyone know? And if this is true, would I benifit more by using a colder runnig spark plug on my regular boxster 2.7 that is modified with bolt-on performance parts and a reprogramed ECU/CPU?
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Hi,
You don't need to run an unmodified car with anything but the OEM Heat Range Specs. Even with a modified car, again stick with the OEM Heat Range. The Heat Range has been thoroughly investigated by Porsche, don't change it on a whim, change it when your plugs tell you to.
A White-tipped or gray electrode indicate the plug is running too hot, meaning that you could be detonating. Too cold a plug, and you'll reduce the plug's lifespan due to fouling. A nice even Tobacco Brown colored tip indicates a proper operating temp.
A spark plug in general will not make more power, and it's one area where more is definitely not better than adequate. Many people don't understand that the difference in Heat Ranges represents the plugs ability to extract heat from the combustion chamber (by generally 70-100°C/increment - though no actual universal standard exists), not the value of the spark it makes. And, because of the lack of a universal standard by Plug manufacturers, one company's #7 plug can yield a completely different Combustion Chamber temp than another. In fact, some companies, like NGK for example, have their indeces reversed - the plugs get hotter as the numbers decline.
Pull your old plugs and see what they're telling you. The Heat range required can be different for all people depending upon your area's avg. temps, the quality of your fuel, your driving habits and driving style. The plugs will tell you what to do. Also, stick with OEM. The Head is tapped with a thread pitch and length to optimize the OEM plug with respect to depth and indexing, another plug may not work as well for these reasons...
Happy Motoring!... Jim'99