Aftermarket March 2023

I nternal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles still make up the majority of cars on the road and visiting garages for servicing and repairs. This means you need to keep up with the technology, including in and around the ignition system. Fatiha Laauich, Pan European Strategic Marketing Manager at DENSO Europe observed: “Despite the growth in electric drivetrains, the ICE engine is still the most common propulsion technology visiting workshops across Europe. In addition, with the pivotal role they continue to play in the powertrain of hybrid vehicles, they will remain at the centre for the independent sector for the foreseeable future. Although many ICEs are powered by diesel, petrol is increasingly common as it is the favoured fuel for most modern hybrids, so understanding spark plug technology and selecting the most appropriate reference for the application is as important as ever.” On how to choose the right spark plug, looking specifically at examples from DENSO, Fatiha said: “Although there are many factors to consider such as their dimensions, projection and heat range, the easiest way to identify the right spark plug is via the DENSO e-catalogue as this allows technicians to find the correct DENSO option based on make and model information or cross references.” On fitment, Fatiha noted: “Although DENSO Spark Plugs are manufactured with a pre-set gap, with nickel plugs, especially for motorcycle applications, the gap may need adjustment. However, any alteration must be made using a 46 AFTERMARKET MARCH 2023 IGNITION www.aftermarketonline.net specific spark plug gapping tool, but the gap must never be changed on platinum, iridium or Twin Tip spark plugs, because their fine electrodes may be damaged.” To access the DENSO e-catalogue, visit: www.denso-am.eu/catalog/pv Spark plugs High quality spark plugs are a must according to NGK Marketing Manager Mark Hallam: “The company’s iridium and platinum precious metal spark plugs may be more expensive, but when specified by vehicle manufacturers and used during service and repair they will prevent possible problems due to poor ignition performances, poor tolerance to fouling, higher ignition coil loads and increasing unwanted emissions. NGK also supplies a range of other ignition products designed to help workshops cater for the requirements of their customers’ vehicles. It has more than 80 years’ experience in ignition technology and its ignition coils range boasts approximately 400-part numbers giving 92% coverage.” Mark continued: “Ignition coil technology can be split into two fundamental operating principles; Single spark technology and dual spark technology. With single spark technology, there is an individual coil for each spark plug supplied. With dual spark technology, two cylinders are always actuated simultaneously by one coil.” On fitting, Mark said: “To ensure correct fit first time, NGK packaging includes a label with a schematic diagram of the coil, so selection can be verified without removal from the Above: Fitting a Delphi Technologies ignition coil SPARKING A DEBATE Ignition systems have become more complex in recent years, so garages need to make sure they are fitting the right parts