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      07-09-2019, 03:21 AM   #1
B1mmerBr4ndon
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Best spark plug for FBO

2015 435i/50,000 miles
I am FBO but without tune. I plan on tuning soon in a month or two.

Which spark plugs should I run? I'm considering putting the bmw branded Bosch spark plugs since the car has been running fine with them prior. I hear there are NGK alternatives as well.

For my situation where I'm on the cusp of tuning but really need to replace sparks what's best recommended?
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      07-09-2019, 07:04 AM   #2
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I am not telling you this is the best for your car but it is what I have been running since spring of last year and I have had no issues. My logs have always been good.

NGK 95770 ILZKBR7B8DG Laser Iridium - gapped @ 0.022”

There are a number of threads on this but if you read them all you will come away with no clear path and plenty of questions on what is best.
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      07-09-2019, 09:37 AM   #3
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I'm currently running NGK 97506 gapped at 0.028" on bm3 stage 2 and car runs great with good timing, but I've also run stock plugs at the same gap and those ran great too.
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      07-09-2019, 10:31 AM   #4
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      07-09-2019, 07:14 PM   #5
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I know you are not tuned yet but BM3 recommends NGK SILZKBR8D8S (97506) gapped at .022-.023.

This is what I am going with soon.

https://bootmod3.atlassian.net/wiki/...+and+which+gap
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      07-09-2019, 09:25 PM   #6
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OEM. If you experience problems or go past 20psi then consider some NGKs
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      07-09-2019, 09:33 PM   #7
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Quote:
Originally Posted by harkes View Post
OEM. If you experience problems or go past 20psi then consider some NGKs
Quote:
Originally Posted by harkes View Post
OEM. If you experience problems or go past 20psi then consider some NGKs
I'm sold. The oem seem like the best bet! Should I get just the Bosch oem plugs or the "S" plugs that are bmw branded?
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      07-11-2019, 02:07 AM   #8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by B1mmerBr4ndon View Post
I'm sold. The oem seem like the best bet! Should I get just the Bosch oem plugs or the "S" plugs that are bmw branded?
I'd guess that the price difference is rather small so go with the "S". Might have been tweaked by BMW
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      07-11-2019, 08:15 AM   #9
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It's the same plug and not worth the extra $$

Quote:
Originally Posted by B1mmerBr4ndon View Post
I'm sold. The oem seem like the best bet! Should I get just the Bosch oem plugs or the "S" plugs that are bmw branded?
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      07-11-2019, 11:26 AM   #10
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This question is like opening a Pandora's box on here. I just went FBO a few weeks ago, I am on stock plugs and PTF said my logs look excellent. I am changing out my plugs on Monday for some fresh stock ones with the pregap they come with. The stock plugs are not designed to be regapped. If I have issues I will go to the NGKs that PTF recommends.
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      07-12-2019, 04:18 AM   #11
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Quote:
Originally Posted by zole2112 View Post
I am not telling you this is the best for your car but it is what I have been running since spring of last year and I have had no issues. My logs have always been good.

NGK 95770 ILZKBR7B8DG Laser Iridium - gapped @ 0.022”

There are a number of threads on this but if you read them all you will come away with no clear path and plenty of questions on what is best.
Quote:
Originally Posted by JaredG_F30 View Post
I'm currently running NGK 97506 gapped at 0.028" on bm3 stage 2 and car runs great with good timing, but I've also run stock plugs at the same gap and those ran great too.
Quote:
Originally Posted by mike@x-ph.com View Post
NGK
It's a good plug but it is not 1 step colder than stock. Huge misconception.
That plug was super popular for n54 guys, because it was 1 step colder.
Stock n55 (and i think b58) plugs already 1 step colder than stock n54 plugs
If you dig deeper, this is a fact

I'd look into copper plugs. Forgot the one I used to use but copper is just the more conductive metal and will perform better, but not last as long as iridium
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      07-12-2019, 07:32 AM   #12
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ocN55 View Post
It's a good plug but it is not 1 step colder than stock. Huge misconception.
That plug was super popular for n54 guys, because it was 1 step colder.
Stock n55 (and i think b58) plugs already 1 step colder than stock n54 plugs
If you dig deeper, this is a fact

I'd look into copper plugs. Forgot the one I used to use but copper is just the more conductive metal and will perform better, but not last as long as iridium
Thanks for the info. I am planning to change my plugs when I install my turbo upgrade and run higher boost, trying to decide which plugs and gap to go with.
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      07-12-2019, 12:38 PM   #13
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Not exactly true. The NGK 97506 is one step colder for N55, 2 steps colder for N54.

DAMMIT...why aren't my pic uploads working. Anyway check the description at this link.


https://www.ecstuning.com/b-ngk-part...six/97506~akt/


Quote:
Originally Posted by ocN55 View Post
It's a good plug but it is not 1 step colder than stock. Huge misconception.
That plug was super popular for n54 guys, because it was 1 step colder.
Stock n55 (and i think b58) plugs already 1 step colder than stock n54 plugs
If you dig deeper, this is a fact

I'd look into copper plugs. Forgot the one I used to use but copper is just the more conductive metal and will perform better, but not last as long as iridium
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      07-15-2019, 03:13 PM   #14
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Quote:
Originally Posted by JaredG_F30 View Post
Not exactly true. The NGK 97506 is one step colder for N55, 2 steps colder for N54.

DAMMIT...why aren't my pic uploads working. Anyway check the description at this link.


https://www.ecstuning.com/b-ngk-part...six/97506~akt/
This is what I'm running at .22, runs great...
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      07-17-2019, 09:23 PM   #15
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Anyone have a link to a good gapping tool?
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      07-17-2019, 09:33 PM   #16
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Quote:
Originally Posted by JaredG_F30 View Post
It's the same plug and not worth the extra $$

Quote:
Originally Posted by B1mmerBr4ndon View Post
I'm sold. The oem seem like the best bet! Should I get just the Bosch oem plugs or the "S" plugs that are bmw branded?
Quote:
Originally Posted by JaredG_F30 View Post
It's the same plug and not worth the extra $$

Quote:
Originally Posted by B1mmerBr4ndon View Post
I'm sold. The oem seem like the best bet! Should I get just the Bosch oem plugs or the "S" plugs that are bmw branded?
It's been noted that the "S" plugs have had changes made to them by BMW
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      07-17-2019, 11:03 PM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by B1mmerBr4ndon View Post
2015 435i/50,000 miles
I am FBO but without tune. I plan on tuning soon in a month or two.

Which spark plugs should I run? I'm considering putting the bmw branded Bosch spark plugs since the car has been running fine with them prior. I hear there are NGK alternatives as well.

For my situation where I'm on the cusp of tuning but really need to replace sparks what's best recommended?
Call Mike at X-PH. Order:

1) NGK 97506. Gap them to 0.020"-0.022". If doing it yourself you'll need a motorcycle engine size gap tool. SnapOn sells one. You'll also need a special sized spark plug socket. Only $3 if you can wait weeks from China or about $15 otherwise. Replace the NGKs every 20k miles.

2) BootMod3. Mike has the best price and includes the laptop cable that you will need. Install Stage1 N55 EWG either 91 or 93 octane depending on what you normally use.

You don't need any mods to run Stage1. It's a smooth tune like factory but much better than BMWs MPPK tune. Later if you invest in an upgraded FMIC and a high flow downpipe it only costs $50 to get the multitune pack to install BM3 Stage2.

Hope this helps!
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      07-17-2019, 11:46 PM   #18
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Quote:
Originally Posted by johnung View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by B1mmerBr4ndon View Post
2015 435i/50,000 miles
I am FBO but without tune. I plan on tuning soon in a month or two.

Which spark plugs should I run? I'm considering putting the bmw branded Bosch spark plugs since the car has been running fine with them prior. I hear there are NGK alternatives as well.

For my situation where I'm on the cusp of tuning but really need to replace sparks what's best recommended?
Call Mike at X-PH. Order:

1) NGK 97506. Gap them to 0.020"-0.022". If doing it yourself you'll need a motorcycle engine size gap tool. SnapOn sells one. You'll also need a special sized spark plug socket. Only $3 if you can wait weeks from China or about $15 otherwise. Replace the NGKs every 20k miles.

2) BootMod3. Mike has the best price and includes the laptop cable that you will need. Install Stage1 N55 EWG either 91 or 93 octane depending on what you normally use.

You don't need any mods to run Stage1. It's a smooth tune like factory but much better than BMWs MPPK tune. Later if you invest in an upgraded FMIC and a high flow downpipe it only costs $50 to get the multitune pack to install BM3 Stage2.

Hope this helps!
Quote:
Originally Posted by johnung View Post
Quote:
Originally Posted by B1mmerBr4ndon View Post
2015 435i/50,000 miles
I am FBO but without tune. I plan on tuning soon in a month or two.

Which spark plugs should I run? I'm considering putting the bmw branded Bosch spark plugs since the car has been running fine with them prior. I hear there are NGK alternatives as well.

For my situation where I'm on the cusp of tuning but really need to replace sparks what's best recommended?
Call Mike at X-PH. Order:

1) NGK 97506. Gap them to 0.020"-0.022". If doing it yourself you'll need a motorcycle engine size gap tool. SnapOn sells one. You'll also need a special sized spark plug socket. Only $3 if you can wait weeks from China or about $15 otherwise. Replace the NGKs every 20k miles.

2) BootMod3. Mike has the best price and includes the laptop cable that you will need. Install Stage1 N55 EWG either 91 or 93 octane depending on what you normally use.

You don't need any mods to run Stage1. It's a smooth tune like factory but much better than BMWs MPPK tune. Later if you invest in an upgraded FMIC and a high flow downpipe it only costs $50 to get the multitune pack to install BM3 Stage2.

Hope this helps!
It does and I appreciate the recommendations. Since the change interval is so short I'm going to be ordering these from FCP to cut costs on future changes.

I'm currently FBO so I am running Mishimoto intercooler/AFE Catted downpipe (400 CPSI filtration) /Borla Exhaust/ M performance airbox with high flow filter from AFE. I am ready to step right into stage 2 if wanted. I need to do sparkies first.

Is there any reason why the NGKs are superior over the OEM modified "S" Bosch plugs? I've seen people running those on modified cars as well.
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      07-18-2019, 04:20 AM   #19
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Funny how big a deal people make out of these F-ing spark plugs. But I guess the hype is coming from the PTF recommendation so understandable...
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      07-18-2019, 08:02 AM   #20
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The NGK 97506 are one step colder than the stock Bosch plugs. As a rule of thumb, you can expect to require one heat range colder than the factory-supplied plugs for every 75-100 horsepower you’ve added with your modifications however, I have read that the stock plugs are good for 500hp but I have not confirmed that.

This is a good read

https://www.enginebuildermag.com/201...ug-heat-range/

Secondly, the NGK plugs can be gapped, whereas the Bosch plugs can not. PTF recommends a 0.020"-0.022" gap. This is because a tuned engine has higher cylinder pressures which require a small intense spark. Alternatively, you could run stock gap with upgraded ignition coils, like PR, which supply higher voltage and amperage to the plug resulting in a more intense spark. This is actually a better solution as the larger gap, say 0.032" with upgraded coils provides an larger intense spark which results in a more uniform flame front upon ignition.


:TLDR...physics

Quote:
Originally Posted by B1mmerBr4ndon View Post
Is there any reason why the NGKs are superior over the OEM modified "S" Bosch plugs? I've seen people running those on modified cars as well.
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      07-18-2019, 10:27 PM   #21
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Quote:
Originally Posted by JaredG_F30 View Post
The NGK 97506 are one step colder than the stock Bosch plugs. As a rule of thumb, you can expect to require one heat range colder than the factory-supplied plugs for every 75-100 horsepower you’ve added with your modifications however, I have read that the stock plugs are good for 500hp but I have not confirmed that.

This is a good read

https://www.enginebuildermag.com/201...ug-heat-range/

Secondly, the NGK plugs can be gapped, whereas the Bosch plugs can not. PTF recommends a 0.020"-0.022" gap. This is because a tuned engine has higher cylinder pressures which require a small intense spark. Alternatively, you could run stock gap with upgraded ignition coils, like PR, which supply higher voltage and amperage to the plug resulting in a more intense spark. This is actually a better solution as the larger gap, say 0.032" with upgraded coils provides an larger intense spark which results in a more uniform flame front upon ignition.


:TLDR...physics
I can confirm that stock plugs are good for 24psi on Pure Stage2 (100% WGDC) with 100% meth for added fuel. This equated to 495whp on a DynoDynamics.

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Last edited by harkes; 07-18-2019 at 10:46 PM..
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      07-18-2019, 11:56 PM   #22
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Ran across this on another forum. Thoughts?

"NGK RUTHENIUM HX™ PSPE
Not getting any traction with the N54 crowd... Apparently because of the lack of understanding about spark plug heat ranges. This plug is heat range 8 same as an N55 but uses a 6 point hex instead of 12 point. You might need an N54 spark plug socket to use it in an N55.

I had the Autolite APP 5682's , about a year old. I took 2 data logs in the morning with the old plugs and 2 in the evening with the new plugs. (NGK 91784 aka LKAR8BHX) The orange and green lines are the new plugs and the blue and red lines are Autolite Double platinums. I didn't accelerate from the same rpm each time so below 4000 rpm you cannot really compare but once the boost stabilized you can see the new plugs made a huge difference. It was 3° cooler but I used SAE correction for temperature.

It was not missing or having timing corrections on the old plugs.

Approximate gap 0.021" not dragging on a 0.020" feeler gauge and a 0.022" would not fit.

This is a custom (Wedge/Ken) E50 tune 22-23 psi stock turbos. FBO except for outlets, no cats. I need to set my shift points up to see where the HP drops off and reset them to what these plugs are doing for HP and TQ at higher rpm's.

These are Nissan GT-R plugs 2 heat ranges colder than N54 stockers.

Not sure anyone has tried this particular plug.(that I have seen) I would love to see someone else dyno or virtual dyno before and after with these plugs. Cheaper than Iridium and better power.

PSPE® (projected square platinum electrode) provides the best ignitability and service life for high-heat engines. This NGK-patented design is recommended for turbo and supercharged engines.

Ruthenium HX Spark Plugs | NGK Spark Plugs"
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