Those Bosch multi-prong spark plug thingies
 

I just wanted to add my impression of those "improved" Bosch spark plugs with the multi-electrodes.

I bought of set of 6 to replace the worn out Motocraft ones in there - thinking that the multi-electrode design would increase spark voltage. Bad idea. I ran them for 500 miles in my truck before someone here in the forum brought me to my senses. I went back to the store to get a set of the Autolite double platinums.

When I pulled the Bosch plugs the center electrode was completely worn out - not even above the level of the ceramic insulator. The electrodes and the insulator were both scorched white, clean as a whistle.

I had to gap the Autolites but at least my truck runs better now. Is Ford one of those companies that produces such good stock parts that it doesn't pay to get aftermarket brands?

The platinum core in the center insulator has been known to fall out, and score cylinder walls with those Bosch plugs...

Just another instance of Bosch plugs not getting it done in a Ford vehicle. Seen it here and in several other forums time and time again.

Bosch is a fine company that makes some high quality automotive products and systems, but their fancy spark plugs simply are not a good mix with Ford ignition systems, plain and simple. It should come as no surprise that virtually all Ford techs despise Bosch spark plugs.

Motorcrafts spark plugs are always recommended in a Ford, but you'll be just fine with the Autolites.

I tried those things one time, lost 3mpg immediatly, lasted 1500 miles and they went over the bank (actually just in the trash can) and autolites went back in and immediatly got my mileage back. Never again.

I had a set of those ibosh plugs in my 4.0 97 ranger, and after about 5,000 Km's the center electrode (and ceramic) separated and bounced around above the cylinder until it eventually was spat out the exchaust. My truck sounded like a diesel tractor. But compression survived so I got off easy.

I hadn't bought the bosch, but paid 6 bucks a plug for split fire, what a joke, lost mpg, rough idle. Ford =motorcraft, bottom line, autolite is the same thing as motorcraft, I think ford use to own autolite didn't they ? It's hard to beat motorcraft parts, even thier filters, and oil are awesome products.

I don't think autolite was ever owned by Ford but I think they make OEM parts for them. There is an amazing amount of parts on our vehicles made by other companies.

Ford did own Autolite, or at least some sort of derivation of it, back in the 60's and I think even into the 70s. There is some indication of that in the info set forth on a website of a predecessor and former part of Autolite, a company called Prestolite Wire: See http://prestolitewire.com/pages/abou...ite_wire/2.php

With all the mergers and buyouts etc. over the years, I'm not really sure about exact dates or periods.

Currently, the Honeywell Corporation owns Autolite, and Autolite makes OEM spark plugs for Motorcraft (and hence Ford).

Thanks for the heads up was looking to use the platinum+4 but changed my mind for sure after reading this

Every plug that I have seen with a non-conventional electrode has been a gimmick designed to extract dollars from your wallet.

goofy spark plugs are kinda like lures, only thing they're sure to catch is a fishermen, same can be said about these spark plugs, cept with gear heads.

you do know you can take the bosch plugs back and they will give you your money back. if your not satisfied... which i wasnt when i tried them

Matt