Spark Plugs...

[cpittaz]

I took my 05 in yesterday with 31k miles on it. I just started having problems with acceleration. They advisede me when I purchased it at 17k miles six months ago that it was totally up to date on all maintenence and would not need to have any work (beyond oil changes) until after the normal 36k miles as they had done everything. So now they are stating that the fuel system needs cleaned, and the vehicle needs a tune up. What kind of spark plugs are recommended for my vehicle? What is suggested for the fuel system. I usually use just regular unleaded and every once in a while i'll throw in some higher octane if it seems to be running rough. But at this point I need to know what's suggested for maintenence.

Thanks[8)]

[quicksilverdon]

You need plugs and wires. Don't just do plugs - the stock wires are crap. Mine started to go before 20,000 miles (a little farther with my '02).
Suggest Crane wires www.RaceAndStreet.Com - they will last much longer than stock.
If you have a non-turbo, get Champion platinums, if you have a turbo, no platinums, either copper of irridium. Gap about 0.040.
IF you are concerned about intake - throw a bottle of Techron in (WalMart has it) - but I'll bet wires & plugs alone will fix you up.

[bobs turbo pt]

do the plugs & wires then see how the car performs

[SteelBlueGT]

If you have a N/A Cruiser I think stock plugs will do the trick although for my turbo I did change to the NGK Iridiums and was very pleased. Spark plug wires should be changed although at your mileage they are probably pretty good. Daughters wires fried in her Neon closer to 60,000 miles. Make sure the plug gap is set at the new closer spec if you choose the stock champ plugs.

[fritz_t_coyote]

quote:Originally posted by cpittaz

I just started having problems with acceleration.

So now they are stating that the fuel system needs cleaned,
and the vehicle needs a tune up.

What kind of spark plugs are recommended for my vehicle?

What is suggested for the fuel system?
I usually use just regular unleaded and every once in a while i'll throw in some higher octane if it seems to be running rough.

Thanks[8)]

I edited your questions to clarify my responses:

1- 'Fuel System Needs Cleaning': Thats a dealer's way of telling you that he thinks you have too much money.

2- Tune Up: This is the general cure-all. But first, what Codes is the engine throwing? An honest shop can tell you; if it is logging misfires, you need a tune-up; and, at 31K, it is due.

For plugs: there are plenty available, there are still raging debates about which is 'best', for your use you don't have to be too picky; copper is fine, Iridium is very nice. but be sure to replace THE WIRES at the same time, and go with either the Mopar performance wires (if you are stuck with dealer service) or just about ANYTHING BUT the original equipment wires, which, as most folks here will point out, are crud. (And some have noticed actually wore out BEFORE the factory plugs did.)

3- The fuel to use is easy:
NEVER, EVER use E85 ethenol. It will damage your car.
The 10% ethanol blends are OK, but no E85.

IF YOU HAVE A TURBO: Use Premium unleaded.
IF YOU DON'T HAVE A TURBO: Use Regular Unleaded... ALWAYS.

The non-turbo engine gets NOTHING from the extra knock resistance of 'premium'. Don't fall for the con-job the oil companies have pitched about high-octane gas being a 'treat'.

http://www.cartalk.com/content/colum.../April/08.html

[rszappa1]

I do not agree...I have a 2004 Turbo Lite...There is no need for premium for that engine...You are wasting your money by doing it. I have run both regular and high test and there was no difference in performance or the gas mileage...and ther was no pre ignition with either gas...Now if you have the HO Turbo...YES use only premuim...[8)]

[fritz_t_coyote]

quote:Originally posted by rszappa1

I do not agree...I have a 2004 Turbo Lite...There is no need for premium for that engine...You are wasting your money by doing it. I have run both regular and high test and there was no difference in performance or the gas mileage...and ther was no pre ignition with either gas...Now if you have the HO Turbo...YES use only premuim...[8)]

Good point! I forgot about the Turbo Lite.

I suspect our newbie has a NA/Automatic Trans.

[cpittaz]

you are correct....a pt cruiser w/ a Automatic Transmission

quote:Originally posted by fritz_t_coyote

Good point! I forgot about the Turbo Lite.

I suspect our newbie has a NA/Automatic Trans.