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MG MGF Technical - Spark Plug Gap????

Decided to change my spark plugs and HT leads on Saturday as they hadnt been done in years probably. One of the old spark plugs had absolutely no gap whatsoever between the electrode and the tip!!! I mean no gap at all. I couldnt get even the thinnest blade on my feeler gauge in between.

Assuming it wasnt set like this deliberately (as they are probably still the originals) what could have caused this, would it have even sparked at all and could it have done any damage to the engine?
Bob Millar

spark plug dropped before putting in the engine? (lightly)

Debris in engine thrown at spark plug? (nasty)

Lack of spark may have dammaged the cat, and you are lightly to have felt it, also a short may have upset the coil/ distributor, or not. A feeble spark may have retarded the ignition causing the exaust to run hot, and a lack of power.
I wouldn't worry, fit new plugs and see if the performance changes.
Will Munns

> Lack of spark may have dammaged the cat

De-Cat pipe fitted anyway.

> A feeble spark may have retarded the ignition causing the exaust to run hot

Had it on the Rolling Road giving 125BHP with this dodgy spark plug so no loss of power

> fit new plugs and see if the performance changes

Feels better with new plugs and leads already!

I wouldnt imagine the plugs have ever been changed suggesting that unless the damage was caused by debris in the engine hitting the plug then it left the factory like this!
Bob Millar

no gap, no spark, misfire, not noticed, doubtful.
other possiblity, knocked on removal ?
happy b'day to Viv
regards Mike
Mike

> knocked on removal

I doubt it. I was worried that some kind of overheating problem may have caused it. Never had any probs with overheating but I did have my inlet manifold gasket replaced as it had failed.

There was a very slight misfire but it wasnt regular or consistent
Bob Millar

Mike,

Please pass on best birthday wishes to Viv from Ann and me.

Are you celebrating this event at the old hotel on Beach Road per chance?

Cheers

Patrick

PS We returned to cold and rain and if this was not enough of a shock to the system, we had to go to a supermarket and then cook our own meal!
Patrick Beet

This thread was discussed on 03/11/2003

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