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View Full Version : Spark plug gap on my generator?



Wade Lippman
10-08-2013, 5:29 PM
I had a Generac 8kw standby generator installed in Spring and had the first service yesterday.
The serviceman told me he had changed the gap to 0.02" from the 0.03" set at the factory because they have hundreds of installations and find that the smaller gap starts better locally.

I sent Generac a email about it, but their only reply was that doing anything contrary to their recommendations might void the warranty. Thanks...

I don't know anything about engines; does what the serviceman say make any sense?

I am already on my second company. The one that installed it doesn't see any reason to change from the factory supplied 30 oil to 5w-30 before winter. I know that is wrong.

ray hampton
10-08-2013, 5:38 PM
.02 or .03 ? I set my plug gap at .030 not .03

Jerry Thompson
10-08-2013, 5:43 PM
.02 or .03 ? I set my plug gap at .030 not .03

What is the difference between .03 and .030?

Chuck Wintle
10-08-2013, 5:58 PM
What is the difference between .03 and .030?

there is no difference.

Myk Rian
10-08-2013, 9:01 PM
I think he knows that.

ray hampton
10-08-2013, 9:41 PM
I think he knows that.



.030 were suppose to read .032 to .035

Phil Thien
10-08-2013, 11:22 PM
The smaller the gap, the smaller the spark and the less likely non-fires or miss-fires will occur. So maybe the ignition system of this particular engine doesn't have the oomph to handle the wider (.030") gap?

I don't think you need the spark to be any larger than what is required to ignite the fuel. But I'm sure someone more knowledgeable than I will pipe-up.

Jason Roehl
10-09-2013, 8:25 AM
A larger gap, if the ignition system can hack it, will give a better flame front in the cylinder--more power and efficiency. I don't know that I'd go from 0.030" to 0.020", maybe 0.025" if it helps it start. Keep in mind, though, that a spark plug gap will almost always get larger with use. When I change plugs in a vehicle, I gap them to the smallest end of the recommended range, and 50,000 miles later they'll still be in spec.

Wade Lippman
10-10-2013, 11:40 AM
It is actually an Eaton made by Generac. Eaton finally got back to me. They say that it won't do any harm and might just possibly be better if there is something odd about our local NG, such as having a high moisture content.