Multiple electrode spark plugs

[Gary Gaz]

Anyone here used/using any??
Looking for options for 440,
My engine builder says get a better burn in the open chamber heads. Using KB184 dome pistons
Cheers from down under

 

[MoparLeo]

Gimmick. Ask your "builder" what he is using...

 

[Gary Gaz]

Either 3 or 4 electrode one are his preference.
I mean in BB the spark plug isn't in the most ideal location for best chamber detonation
He's in his 60's
Talking to a guy on the weekend he brought a car of this guy almost 20 years ago with fresh rebuild. Only changed oil and filters and maybe plugs and nothing else.

 

[gkent]

We used to run multi- electrode plugs in the kart engines when we were racing. Not because of a better spark but because they took up more space - meaning your compression ratio was a tad higher (spec engines). But they're pretty much proven to be a gimmick.

 

[RJRENTON]

We used to run multi- electrode plugs in the kart engines when we were racing. Not because of a better spark but because they took up more space - meaning your compression ratio was a tad higher (spec engines). But they're pretty much proven to be a gimmick.

Many stationary natural gas pumping engines use multiple ground electrode spark plugs. An old brand name that is still in business is STITT Spark Plug Company, I believe in Conroe Texas. Piston engine aircraft engines, like Continental or the old Pratt and Whitney Wasp use multiple ground electrode spark plugs because they provide significantly longer life are are less sensitive to lead fouling due to AV gas.
BOB RENTON

 

[mrhemi]

Many stationary natural gas pumping engines use multiple ground electrode spark plugs. An old brand name that is still in business is STITT Spark Plug Company, I believe in Conroe Texas. Piston engine aircraft engines, like Continental or the old Pratt and Whitney Wasp use multiple ground electrode spark plugs because they provide significantly longer life are are less sensitive to lead fouling due to AV gas.
BOB RENTON

Absolutely correct Bob, however the quote applications address reliability, not performance gains. Once a spark cycle is initiated (power stroke) it will only arc between one pair of electrodes, not multiples for a given cycle. So, the extra electrodes can actually shroud the start of the flame event, potentially hindering performance rather than enhancing it. So in the context of the OP's original question, gimmick. Conventional plugs with an MSD ignition is more effective.

 

[RGAZ]

The multiple shrouded electrode commercials always make me chuckle. I spent many hours side-gapping and clocking my plugs for more power and their product does exactly the opposite. You should consider side-gapping before thinking about the multi-electrode option. The biggest negative to side gapping is you can really eat up plugs and have to re-gap pretty regularly (no iridium or platinum either). I only used on (street) racing applications and I am too old for that XXit these days.

Do a search for side-gapping spark plugs. Its an interesting read.

RGAZ