Bosch makes a line of plugs that Chad is talking about. They work well in many applications.

 

So is the ring/ring groove gap on the top ring one of the most sensitive measures of detonation? Interesting. Is the second ring/ring gap usually also out or spec in these cases?
Can knock sensor/timing retard data be downloaded to detect above "normal" levels of (high rpm) detonation? I assume the computer can detect and adjust for low - mid RPM knock, but what about the high RPM detonation? Too bad you can't rig up a dash light that flashes whenever the knock sensor is triggered.
I've always been afraid some of that the aftermarket chips effectively disable some of their (OEM) built in engine protections.

 

Ebaker,
It depends on the amount of continued abuse. The fist land is good for measurement but in most cases I have seen the second land come apart.

The computer can take into account the upper RPM ranges for detonation, however is also aligned with data from the 02 sensors which stay in constant closed loop. Knock sensors are a help on a turbo car, however one must be proactive. The sensor alone will not catch everything, but with all the other sensors and a conservative AFR your safety margin is in check. This is also why when you program an ECU you want a tuner that allows the matrix to remain active rather than locking it out. There are a few tuners that will jam the software to one level if you will. This is not necessary the right approach for a street car which will see many changes. The 996TT computer and engine is very complicated and smarter than most think. As I have said before we have watched the ban of control move nearly 40HP and 30TQ. That kind of control will keep you out of trouble when it arises.

 

What spark plugs are you guys referring to?? Should I change mine from stock to those??

 

No stock application is fine.

 

What about level 4 application??

 

The programs are designed to not have to change the plugs. The stock heat range is fine for the systems.

 

Would I gain anything by changing them anyway??

 

Not unless the plug is not proper for the application, not hot enough or causing detonation. It is the old saying that plug wires don't add HP, neither do plugs. Split fire got nailed with false advertising with this statement. Notice they don't claim any HP gains unless your plugs are shot.

 

They missed an opportunity! They could also claim a
16% power improvement for a typical flat-6 if a SplitFire
plug is used to replace a missing plug!

Joe Weinstein

 

LMAO..only 16%!!

 

Stephen is correct about the plugs. They don't make HP but they do have to survive their enviroment. The plug I am using is made by Denso. They have an Iridium electrode. It's melt point is 700 degrees hotter than platinum. The electrode is .4mm versus 1.4 mm on the stock plug. The ground electrode also has some nice features.