Spark plug specialists NGK, a brand of Niterra, gives its advice on making the right spark plug choice to better maintain classic cars.
How do you know if a classic car is being serviced properly? Not only is a classic vehicle likely to have a different service schedule to that of a modern engine, but the additional lifetime of the vehicle has made room for the servicing to get out of sync and out of the manufacturer’s original specifications over time. This can make a big difference to someone looking to buy or sell a classic car; something which more and more people are doing for good value transport at a time of rising prices. So how do you know what ‘properly’ is, and if it has or hasn’t been achieved?
Time vs mileage
Service interval is the key marker here but not in the way you might expect. The typical debate is often a face-off between two camps: interval by time or by mileage. Now, the biggest interval to manage is between technology of old and new. Modern spark plugs designed for today’s vehicles aim to offer the perfect match demanded by the vehicle manufacturers, whereas classic vehicles which relied on perhaps simpler technology can benefit from the latest technology such as Iridium.
Unlike modern engines, classic cars have their unique considerations when it comes to spark plug choice. It matters whether the vehicles are used for low mileages, commuting or in storage for extended periods of time. Ignition distribution system or modifications to the system in the spirit of reviving a classic, make a difference. These older engines typically have lower compression ratios and require a different heat range compared to their contemporary counterparts. Therefore, using the appropriate spark plugs specifically designed for classic cars is essential. This may be by using the correct copper cored nickel spark plug or upgrading to iridium plugs, which often greatly assists the ignition and combustion process.
Engineered for classics
Keeping engines performing well is a number one priority for Niterra, and its spark plug portfolio for classic vehicles is engineered to deliver exactly what a classic car needs. Maintaining the value in that vehicle is also high priority so its parts will help that vehicle run as optimally as possible, including all important emissions. Its technical department can offer advice about spark plug heat range choice for older vehicles which are used in competition, hard or general road use, commuting or vintage road runs by utilising the ‘contact us’ area of the website.
Although earlier vehicles are MOT exempt, incorrect servicing could result in MOT fail-worthy emissions and jeopardise that important overall vehicle valuation and usability. Even though MOT pass thresholds are typically set in line with the age of the vehicle, it could still fail because the wrong parts have been used for someone’s classic vehicle. The NGK partfinder website aims to make it easy to quickly find the classic car catalogue and navigate through to the application information. The individual spark plug specifications can be found there together with spark plug upgrades, of which the fine-wire (0.6mm diameter) precious metal iridium centre electrode plugs, which require less voltage and are beneficial for low powered ignition systems, taking the load off otherwise tired ignition components.
Keeping older vehicles running smoothly and efficiently is a viable strategy in the drive towards sustainability. By keeping them running for longer workshops can help with the critical demand for mobility which is accessible and sustainable. To service them properly, the right spark plug from NGK aims to ensure that their cherished classics continue to run well while maintaining their original charm on the road.
