4 PRECAUTIONS REGARDING SPARK-PLUGS… TO THE TOP!

Mattia Livraghi

29 April 2022

The spark plug is a small but essential component of karts. In addition to being necessary to generate the spark for ignition, which is essential for the operation of an engine (as we explained in ”Tech Talk - Spark plugs”), spark-plugs significantly affect the performance of engines.

However, perhaps due to their apparently simple structure, they can easily be "taken for granted". But neglecting certain precautions in the use and maintenance of spark-plugs can lead to problems, even serious ones.

TKART spoke to Massimo Aceto, a professional mechanic in international competitions and owner of ACE Racing, who has selected, for all of you, four precautions to be taken to ensure the correct use of spark-plugs.

IF A SPARK-PLUG FALLS ON THE FLOOR… THROW IT AWAY!

It may seem trivial, but when a spark plug falls, there is only one thing to do: throw it away. In fact, the main construction materials of this component includes ceramic whose impact resistance is anything but high (do you remember the faces of your relatives every time you approached your grandmother's set of plates?). If, unfortunately, a ceramic residue ends up in the combustion chamber of the engine, it could easily cause damage to the piston, cylinder or engine head. It is therefore always advisable to avoid using a spark-plug following a collision, regardless of where this occurred (whether on the ground or on the trolley, which often holds spark-plugs when they slip from the hands of drivers or mechanics). Haven't we convinced you? Think about it: isn’t it is better to spend a few Euros more for a new spark-plug than to spend a lot more to remake an engine after losing a session, or even a race, due to its breakdown?

Indicative price

About 5 euros

To buy: drakekart.com
Photo credit: Drakekart.com