For my Focus 2.0 Zetec 2001 ESP I am using Bosch Super 4's.....Are these the best plugs I can buy from off the shelf (Halfords) without having to order some special ones? I have heard NGK are meant to be very good.....But the Bosch Super 4's have 4 probes which to me looks good but if they are or not is another matter!

 

i've never bothered with the 4 electrode plugs, you will NOT get 4 sparks as people seem to believe as electricity takes the easiest route s it will jump the shortest gap. the real theory behind them is extended service intervals.

personally i use ngk platinums. have done in zetecs for years and well over 100k and never had any problems. as will all plugs though you should gap them first before fitting.

 

NGK any time

 

Thanks Phil

I am going to sound really really thick here so please excuse me!! I thought all plugs were already gapped? Which leads me to the question.....How do you gap them?

 

they are supposed to come pre gapped but almost never are.

to check the gap i use a set of feeler guages, if i need to close the gap i gently push the electrode on the slam pannel a bit at a time and o open the gap i grip the electrode with a pair of pliers. just be gentle.

there are tools you can buy though from the likes of halfrauds.

 

Top man Phil

what gap should mine be if I get the same plugs as you?

 

well mines a 2000 and the manual states 1mm but i've had people tell me 1.3mm. however, when i tried 1.3mm it didn't feel quite right, just felt a bit lacking top end but back on 1mm and she's fine.

 

They say they are pregapped, but then ask yourself how this can be when they often fit several different cars with different gaps!!
As said 4 earth electrodes are for long service nothing else, I have had lots of hassle with bosch plugs in zetecs, so won't use them now, I use the ford ones, but NGK are also excellent.
I wouldn't go over 1mm gap.
tabetha