NGK recommends periodic inspection of motorcycle spark plugs

Motorcycles have compact engines that, in most cases, work in harsher conditions than in automobiles. To minimize the risk of unwanted breakdowns, and NGK, world's largest manufacturer and specialist in spark plugs, recommends looking for trusted professionals to assess the need for replacement, The Recommended Model, in addition to ensuring its correct application, without compromising the other components.

Motorcycle manufacturers indicate in their maintenance plan, in the Owner's Manual, the mileage for changing the spark plugs. Although it varies according to the characteristics of each model, In general, it is recommended to replace every 12.000 kilometers. To avoid surprises and breakdowns, NGK advises the rider to request an inspection every six months or as soon as the vehicle reaches 3.000 kilometers traveled.

Spark plug wear can cause difficulty in starting, malfunction, increase in fuel consumption, High level of pollutant emissions and damage to the ignition system. Automobiles have multiple cylinders, What it allows, in case of emergency, the owner to go to a safe place. "Normally, Low-displacement engines are single-cylinder, increasing the risk of an ignition failure. In an emergency situation, The use of the candle without ideal condition will be highly harmful, increasing the difficulty or making it totally impossible to start the engine", explains Hiromori Mori, NGK Technical Assistance technician.

Furthermore, The bi-fuel system was also developed and improved for motorcycles and, just like in cars, brings the concern with the use at low temperatures, mainly because it does not have a cold start system. That is why, NGK reinforces the need for spark plugs in good condition.

Another indication from the technician is not to force the ignition, in case of difficulty. "As the capacity of motorcycle batteries is usually smaller, insistence on departure can quickly exhaust it. Another possible problem is the soaking of the candle with fuel, causing a greater inconvenience to the motorcyclist. If it occurs, you have to wait until the fuel evaporates completely", clarifies Hiromori.

Hall Two Wheels

The latest technologies in spark plugs, lambda probe and suppressive terminals are the highlights of NGK's booth at the 12th edition of Salão Duas Rodas, which will be held between October 8 and 13, at the Anhembi Exhibition Pavilion. Motorcycle spark plugs use basically the same materials used for the automotive market, but they are produced according to the characteristics of each engine.

Conventional candles have nickel electrodes with embedded copper , ensuring greater durability, with an extension of the working temperature range. Other model, known as Resistive candle, It has a ceramic resistor, able to attenuate electromagnetic interference caused by the ignition system. This interference is extremely harmful to the electronic systems of vehicles, such as fuel injection, antitheft (alarms, Blockers and trackers) and ABS system.

There is also the Platinum spark plug that has a tip of this material on the central electrode, offering high wear resistance. Electrode diameter is reduced, ensuring gains in ignitability, plus improved fuel economy and idle stability, reduction in pollutant emissions, easier matches, less possibility of misfires and, as it is a resistive type candle, Avoids interference with electronic systems.

Finally, The latest generation of spark plug technology for high-performance engines is the Iridium spark plug. This noble metal has high wear resistance, enabling even greater reduction in the electrode diameter, Extending all the benefits already seen in platinum candles. Some manufacturers indicate a replacement mileage for this spark plug up to four times higher than the conventional one.

NGK also produces racing sails, EGV, which have a central palladium gold electrode. With a high heat dissipation power, greater resistance to critical working conditions of competition engines and excellent ignition, are suitable for use in engines prepared for high performance.

Maintenance

NGK recommends that spark plugs be inspected by your trusted mechanic, that it has better conditions to assess wear, and will be able to check the burning condition of the fuel and identify possible engine failures. "Furthermore, Specialized workshops have the necessary equipment for changing and applying the specific tightening torque for the spark plugs. Excess torque or lack of it can damage components", Hiromori explains.

During Spark Plug Replacement, It is necessary to take into account the make and year of the motorcycle, because for each one a specific model is recommended, which must be obeyed unrestrictedly. The use of inappropriate parts can compromise the operation of the engine, in addition to damaging the ignition system.

Motorcycle engines are more compact, making the spark plugs have reduced dimensions and different thermal grade, that is, The spark plug used on motorcycles is cooler. The engine speed of these vehicles is usually above 6 thousand rpm and, mostly, at speeds higher than those seen in cars.

NGK recommends that prior to component installation, the repairer refer to the NGK application catalogue or the Owner's Manual, since spark plugs have different technical characteristics and are developed specifically for each type of engine. The NGK application table can be downloaded from the website www.ngkntk.com.br or requested at SAC 0800 197112.

terminals

In addition to the spark plug, NGK manufactures the suppressive terminal, which has the function of conducting the high voltage produced by the coil to the spark plugs, without allowing current leakage. The products are designed to withstand high temperatures and stresses , in addition to ensuring the perfect seal between the spark plug and the terminal. Important factor when the motorcycle is used on rainy days or flooded places, as it prevents engine failures.

NGK markets, with exclusivity, Colored terminals with the same function as the traditional suppressive terminal, but that allow the customization of the motorcycle, bringing together a strong aesthetic appeal and valuing heritage.

Only available for the aftermarket, The colored terminal is sold in kits, which also have a colored tube for the coil wire and reflective adhesive. With three color options – blue, yellow and red –, The product fits most motorcycle models, it can be used in the applications of LD05FP and VD05FMH type terminals.