NGK tr55 Spark Plugs

dukbludvl · August 5, 2004

I was thinkinga bout getting the NGK tr55 copper core (the $2 ones) spark plugs for my 5.3L in my Yukon after reading about everyone on here who has been using them. BUt, I just talked to NGK's customer service dept. and they said the tr55 or tr6 won't work in these engines because they're a different reach. They said the pistons would bang.

Can this be right? Are people using the NGK tr55s and they're working OK? If so, what p/n are you using?

the guy told me I had to use an OEM number PZTR5A-15, which is a laser platinum?

Please advise.

Thanks!

Jon

midnight8100 · April 28, 2005

Sounds like a load of crap to me. I've run NGK TR-55's in my '99 Silverado (5.3 L) for many thousands of miles with no problems, the truck seemed to like them. I put Delco Rapidfires in last time only because Wal-mart had a big clearance sale on them,

99Silver6.0 · April 28, 2005

Yeah. Nice smoke on that one. Somebody is a retard. The vast majority of LS1 owners run TR55's. Guys running N2O will use the TR6. Ive run TR55's since Ive owned my truck. ZERO problems.

Not really a part number. Just hit the parts store and ask for 8 NGK TR55's.

99silveradoz71 · April 29, 2005

I've run them since I replaced plugs the first time with no problems.

budhayes3 · April 29, 2005

I'm runnin em with no probs either. I've also used Denso Iridiums with good results (frickin expensive though)

mcreyaufmiller · April 29, 2005

I have been using the Bosch Platnium's +2. These are a 2 prong plug, I just put me second set in yesterday for $3.99 each at Pep Boys. The +4 plug was $5.99 each. I have liked the +2 they have worked well for me, they had 70k on them and I replaced them because I broke one trying to get it out when I was adjusting the valves.

mcreyaufmiller · April 29, 2005

Here is an interesting tid-bit I found:

Document ID# 1559058

1998 Chevrolet/Geo Chevy C Pickup - 2WD

Platinum Tip Spark Plug Maintenance Information for all 95-02 Models Equipped with Platinum Tip Spark Plugs - kw sparkplug performance #PIP3069A - (Oct 26, 2004)

Platinum Tip Spark Plug Maintenance Information for all 95 - 02 Models Equipped with Platinum Tip Spark Plugs

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The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom described in the PI.

Condition/Concern:

Platinum tip spark plug maintenance Information

Recommendation/Instructions:

The following information was originally sent to all General Motors dealers as a DCS message on October 14, 1999:

It has come to our attention that some GM dealers sell a customer service to remove platinum tipped spark plugs and clean the threads at regular intervals to prevent the seizure of the spark plugs in the cylinder heads at high mileage. Platinum tipped spark plugs are designed to operate under normal vehicle operating conditions for up to 100,000 miles (160,000 kms) without periodic maintenance. When no engine performance concerns are present, platinum tipped spark plugs should not be removed for periodic inspection and cleaning of threads, doing so would compromise the spark plugs ability to withstand their corrosive environment. The threaded area, although not sealed, serves as a protective environment against most harmful elements. Removing and cleaning spark plugs will introduce metallic debris and brush scrapings into the thread area which may further the corrosion process. Chromate coated spark plugs should not be wire brushed or handled in any way once they are put in service. Chromium topcoats form a protective oxide on spark plugs that is not effective if scratched. Both coated and uncoated spark plugs will have the best chance of surviving a corrosive environment if they are left in position. Attempts to maintain spark plugs by removing them and cleaning the threads can actually create the corrosive condition that the procedure was intended to prevent.

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Please follow this diagnosis process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed. If these steps do not resolve the condition, please contact GM TAC for further diagnostic assistance.

Models:

(95 - 02 All Passenger Cars with gasoline engines) and (95 - 02 All Passenger Trucks with gasoline engines)

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GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

Document ID# 1559058

1998 Chevrolet/Geo Chevy C Pickup - 2WD