Pontiac Montana Double Platinum Plug

A single platinum plug is much like a copper spark plug with a platinum disc welded to the center electrode; a double platinum spark plug has a platinum disc on both the center and side electrodes. This type of plug represents a step up in price, they typically yield slightly higher performance along with the longer life that platinum plugs are known for. Another advantage is that the double platinum plugs work especially well with wasted spark ignition systems. Double platinum spark plugs are more expensive because platinum is a more rare element in nature. Where platinum spark plugs shine is their great longevity under normal driving conditions. Platinum is harder than nickel alloy, so it doesn’t erode the way copper/nickel plugs do. This means the gap at the tip of the spark plug does not widen as the metal wears away. In application it is essential that the spark gap be as specified for the particular engine. Gauges are available to aid in making this adjustment by bending the ground electrode as required. If the plug gap is too large, the possibility of misfiring increases. If the gap is too small, the spark will not be sufficiently intense. Gap growth from erosion of the electrodes may be corrected. Double platinum spark plugs resist carbon buildup more effectively because they run at higher operating temperatures than copper/nickel ones do. These are well-suited to modern engines designed with distributor-based electronic ignition systems, and are standard OEM equipment on many new vehicles.

Double platinum spark plugs resist carbon buildup more effectively because they run at higher operating temperatures than copper/nickel ones do. Platinum is harder than nickel alloy, so it doesn’t erode the way copper/nickel plugs do. This means the gap at the tip of the spark plug does not widen as the metal wears away.

Electrical current travels from the battery to the induction coil, which raises the voltage to ignite the plugs. Spark Plugs are necessary to produce a smooth burn. Each spark plug is connected to an ignition system. When high voltage is generated by the coil, electrical impulses travel from the ignition coil through insulated plug wires. Spark plugs require voltage in excess of 20,000 volts from a lower voltage battery. Once the voltage exceeds the dielectric strength of the gases, a spark jumps the gap at the plug's firing end and the air/fuel mixture is ignited.

Spark plugs are fitted on the engine cylinder head.