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Plug gap

Discussion in 'Motorcycle Tech Talk' started by dmassey, Jun 5, 2011.

  1. dmassey

    dmassey Active Member

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    When setting the plug gap, should you opt towards the narrow gap, wide gap or split in the middle? Majority of riding is between 2500 and 3500 RPM. Mostly two up adults. Per H-D recommendation running high test fuel. What's your feelings?
    dmassey, Jun 5, 2011
    #1
  3. cowboy

    cowboy Moderator Staff Member

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    I start around the middle & see on she run's , :D
    cowboy, Jun 5, 2011
    #2
  4. HarleysLR

    HarleysLR Active Member

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    I set mine at 40, most plugs come preset but I always check'em. If I don't run H-D plugs I run NGK.
    Yes I run premium gas at least 91 octane, if I can't get 91 I put in the best they have an add a booster or other good additive.
    HarleysLR, Jun 6, 2011
    #3
  5. dmassey

    dmassey Active Member

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    Thanks guys! I'll check the ones that are in the bike now and go from there. I have another set that are still in good shape. Reason I'm asking is were were out on a ride yesterday and when we came to a sizable hill, it didn't seem to have the torque that it has had previously. Maybe just my imagination but........... Anyhow, when I dropped to 5th, all was well with the world again.
    Danny
    dmassey, Jun 6, 2011
    #4
  6. JohnnyBiker

    JohnnyBiker Well-Known Member

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    I am with HarleysLR, as he said they do come preset but always double check them... I have done this before, I will take the plugs out and use a wire brush to clean the threads and the electrode off so I can get more life out of them... sometimes I will even reset the gap as long as there is no damage to the electrode....
    JohnnyBiker, Jun 6, 2011
    #5
  7. dmassey

    dmassey Active Member

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    Took the old set that had about 5K on 'em, wire brushed and gapped at .040. Me and my wife went out on a 50 Mile ride and it "seemed" to do better on the high gear pull. Now we'll see if the computer changes anything.
    Danny

    Let's go stake some tomatoes now.
    dmassey, Jun 6, 2011
    #6
  8. chucktx

    chucktx Moderator Staff Member

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    and i know ya used some anti sieze on the threads....................and dielectric grease on the boot........
    chucktx, Jun 6, 2011
    #7
  9. Ted

    Ted New Member

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    When I was pulling wrenches about 40 of 50 years ago I started setting plugs .005 closer than factory set. I found when it came time to change the plugs the setting was just right. It never gave me any trouble. I used never seize way back when. Before then I took out a few plugs with an EZ out. I thought it would give you something to think about
    Later Ole Ted.
    Ted, Jun 6, 2011
    #8
  10. chucktx

    chucktx Moderator Staff Member

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    yup...i remember....... one thing tho........flatties and knucks didnt have aluminum heads either........good ol' long lasting, cast iron!!!!!!:)
    chucktx, Jun 6, 2011
    #9
  11. Ted

    Ted New Member

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    My first HD was a 41 61 steel plugs on cast would freeze too. I think I still have a couple big old spark plugs. The good old days $.50 for gas my girl and I could ride 50 miles to Datona beach.
    Later Ole Ted
    Ted, Jun 7, 2011
    #10
  12. JohnnyBiker

    JohnnyBiker Well-Known Member

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    As I was installing my baffles I took the plugs out and checked for rich or lean and also the the plug gap.. The front was a little off and the rear one was right on...... PLugs looked awesome... a little tan due to the additive that I have in at the moment..... I am thinking about picking up some 100 octane Low lead to have fun with...... :rocket_bike:
    JohnnyBiker, Jun 7, 2011
    #11

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