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Spark plugs for 2000 XJ

Old Jul 12, 2011 | 12:41 AM
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Default Spark plugs for 2000 XJ

Ive used the search function but getting conflicting finds. Seems most say use champions but ive seen a few posts say to use NGK plugs on the 2000 and 2001 year models because of the different ignition system. I want to use OEM copper stlye plugs nothing fancy. I find the closer i keep the engine to stock the more reliable it is offroad and on.

Also i hear nothing of changing boots or anything with these year models. I know it has a short boot unlike regular plug wires but does it need replaced too or what?
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Old Jul 12, 2011 | 01:09 AM
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It's my understanding that the 2000 and 2001 models came from the factory with NGK plugs.
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Old Jul 12, 2011 | 01:18 AM
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Originally Posted by SNIDELYWHIPLASH
It's my understanding that the 2000 and 2001 models came from the factory with NGK plugs.
Found two posts stating the same. Is there a way to find out or is it just hearsay. Any idea on the plugs?
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Old Jul 12, 2011 | 01:23 AM
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i changed the "boots" when i changed the spark plugs, use dielectric grease and anti-seize compound, remember to torque the spark plugs to 27ft-lb.
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Old Jul 12, 2011 | 05:30 AM
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Champions will work okay, but the NGK holds up best with the coil pack distributorless ignition on the 00-01 (gap doesn't open up as much).

NGK V-Power (copper) is what I install on the 00-01.

Stay away from Bosch plugs. Some (certainly not all) have experienced mysterious misfires with Bosch plugs, which have gone away when plugs were swapped to a different manufacturer.

Either way, change them every 30k and be darn sure that the gap is checked before you install!! .035 Never assume that the gap is right out of the box. Lately, I have been having to gap at least half of the ones right out of the box.
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Old Jul 12, 2011 | 11:32 AM
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Originally Posted by tjwalker
Champions will work okay, but the NGK holds up best with the coil pack distributorless ignition on the 00-01 (gap doesn't open up as much).

NGK V-Power (copper) is what I install on the 00-01.

Stay away from Bosch plugs. Some (certainly not all) have experienced mysterious misfires with Bosch plugs, which have gone away when plugs were swapped to a different manufacturer.

Either way, change them every 30k and be darn sure that the gap is checked before you install!! .035 Never assume that the gap is right out of the box. Lately, I have been having to gap at least half of the ones right out of the box.
Thnaks for the help so do you recommend swapping out the boots with new ones. I guess once i take it apart if they look bad or aged i will replace them.
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Old Jul 12, 2011 | 01:51 PM
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NGK's @ .035 gap. Out of the box they are NOT set properly (at least mine weren't). When I changed out the plugs that were in there, the gaps ranged from .050 to .076....obviously the OE plugs. Made a HUGE difference in gas mileage and driveability.
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Old Jul 12, 2011 | 02:00 PM
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My 2000 was factory equipped with NGK's.
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Old Jul 12, 2011 | 02:43 PM
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Alright just picked up some NGKs and boots from the zone lol. All the plugs are already pre gapped to .035 even checked each one before leaving the store. Im off to remove everything and see what kinda shape the old ones are in. Wish me luck
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Old Jul 12, 2011 | 03:30 PM
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How tight would you guys make the 4 rail bolts if not usaing a torque wrench? Ive seen in writeups saying 250 in lbs which too me sound like it barely snug? Need help asap!
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Old Jul 12, 2011 | 03:37 PM
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i would just do them snug. what ive done
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Old Jul 12, 2011 | 03:49 PM
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Got them finger tight will do like a 1/4 to 1/2 turn and be done then. They were on fairly tight though when i went to remove then. Removing all the junk to get to the rail was the hardest part
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Old Jul 12, 2011 | 06:32 PM
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Originally Posted by MuscleHead
How tight would you guys make the 4 rail bolts if not using a torque wrench? Ive seen in writeups saying 250 in lbs which too me sound like it barely snug? Need help asap!
If you WERE using a torque wrench you would...
...set the wrench to 29 Newton/Meters (Nm). This happens to be 21.3893 ft/lbs by the way. Torque down all four bolts, starting with the center 2, then the ends.
(Or 256.67 in lbs.)

http://www.getahelmet.com/jeeps/maint/sparkplugs/
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Old Jul 13, 2011 | 12:20 PM
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Originally Posted by SNIDELYWHIPLASH
If you WERE using a torque wrench you would...
(Or 256.67 in lbs.)

http://www.getahelmet.com/jeeps/maint/sparkplugs/
YEah didnt have the luxury so i just barely put pressure on them after finger tightening.
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Old Jul 13, 2011 | 06:11 PM
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Tjwalker stated...
Stay away from Bosch plugs. Some (certainly not all) have experienced mysterious misfires with Bosch plugs, which have gone away when plugs were swapped to a different manufacturer.
Funny you mention this. I've pretty much used nothing but Bosch Platinums since we've owned XJs for the past 11 years now. The vehicles have always run fine on them. This is the first I've heard anyone mention this brand causing a problem.
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