Spark Plugs for my 3.6?

645 Views 14 Replies 4 Participants Last post by Rhill1124, 12 d ago

madmax99

Discussion Starter · 1 mo ago

I have a 2018 Dodge Charger SXT Plus with a 3.6 Pentastar V6.

It is approaching 85k miles.

It is time for me to change the spark plugs—the Mopar-brand spark plug cost $17.17 each (rockauto.com). I don't want to spend $17 for each plug. Is there an alternate brand I can use for my car? I do not want Iridium, Platinum, etc. I don't think they will work very well for the Pentastar engine. I am thinking of good ol' Champion copper spark plugs. I am looking for OEM-like spark plugs.

I have a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee with a 4.0L engine (straight six-cylinder). This engine uses Champion copper plugs. They work very well. I have heard some people installed fancy (precious metals) spark plugs and they had serious issues with the engine. That is why I am concerned about putting the RIGHT type of plug for my Charger with 3.6 V6.

Oh, which brand gasket do you recommend for the intake manifold? Mopar or Fel-Pro? or ??

What's the torque for bolting down the manifold to the top part of the engine?

THANKS

1 - 15 of 15 Posts

N8ECH

· #2 · 1 mo ago

MadMax:
The oem plugs are rated at 100k. Is there a drivability, or other issue that causes you to think they are worn out? I like to run the oem spec plugs in my vehicles. Champion Coppers are good plugs, but not really beyond 50k. Dodge specs that they be changed around 30k. If you shop around, you may be able to get a little better than $17 per, but there are only 6 of them. $100 for plugs every 100k, isn't bad.
Remember, the Hemi has 16.

Don

Reactions: 2

ONEZ ST

· #3 · 1 mo ago

Stick with the Mopar SP149125xx plugs. Some use Champion and others use NGK. Ive heard a very few folks complain of pinging with NGK. Given the amount of work to replace plugs on the 3.6 I would stick with OEM.

Do not get a Felpro set of seals for the upper intake manifold. Buy a set from Mahle. As far as the torque, i don't know that and do not want to mislead you so maybe do some Google search or access a service manual.

And while you are performing the 100,000 service schedule what is your plan for the PCv valve inspection due at the same time.

Rhill1124

· #4 · 1 mo ago

I use the NGK Silver Iridium, absolutely no issues.

If you don’t like that route, stick with OEM.

madmax99

Discussion Starter · #5 · 1 mo ago

N8ECH said:
MadMax:
The oem plugs are rated at 100k. Is there a drivability, or other issue that causes you to think they are worn out? I like to run the oem spec plugs in my vehicles. Champion Coppers are good plugs, but not really beyond 50k. Dodge specs that they be changed around 30k. If you shop around, you may be able to get a little better than $17 per, but there are only 6 of them. $100 for plugs every 100k, isn't bad.
Remember, the Hemi has 16.

Don

I've noticed slight hesitation during acceleration. I knew that it's the plugs. Thanks for your advice. I'll go with OEM at $17 each plugs. It should be worth it.

madmax99

Discussion Starter · #6 · 1 mo ago

ONEZ ST said:
Stick with the Mopar SP149125xx plugs. Some use Champion and others use NGK. Ive heard a very few folks complain of pinging with NGK. Given the amount of work to replace plugs on the 3.6 I would stick with OEM.

Do not get a Felpro set of seals for the upper intake manifold. Buy a set from Mahle. As far as the torque, i don't know that and do not want to mislead you so maybe do some Google search or access a service manual.

And while you are performing the 100,000 service schedule what is your plan for the PCv valve inspection due at the same time.

I'll go with the Mopar plugs and Mahle gaskets. Thanks for your advice.

PCV? I've never thought of that, but it's a good idea to inspect it. I will clean it and reuse it. It's a very simple valve. I'll make sure that it is not clogged or covered with grease.

madmax99

Discussion Starter · #7 · 1 mo ago

Rhill1124 said:
I use the NGK Silver Iridium, absolutely no issues.

If you don’t like that route, stick with OEM.

I'll stick with OEM. thanks.

Reactions: 1

Rhill1124

· #8 · 1 mo ago

madmax99 said:
I'll stick with OEM. thanks.

I figured you would.

N8ECH

· #9 · 1 mo ago

Madmax:
Double check it, but I find a set of six Mopar SP1492125AE plugs at this link for $79.

BTW, it appears that there is an AF version that has replaced this AE version.

Don

www.amazon.com

Amazon.com: Dodge Charger Promaster Jeep Wrangler Set Of Six (6) Spark Plugs OEM : Automotive

Buy Dodge Charger Promaster Jeep Wrangler Set Of Six (6) Spark Plugs OEM: Spark Plugs - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

ONEZ ST

· #10 · 1 mo ago

N8ECH said:
Madmax:
Double check it, but I find a set of six Mopar SP1492125AE plugs at this link for $79.

BTW, it appears that there is an AF version that has replaced this AE version.

Don

Amazon.com: Dodge Charger Promaster Jeep Wrangler Set Of Six (6) Spark Plugs OEM : Automotive

Buy Dodge Charger Promaster Jeep Wrangler Set Of Six (6) Spark Plugs OEM: Spark Plugs - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

Mopar has superseded their branded 3.6 plugs numerous times over the year as the 3.6 has been coupled to ESS that stops and starts each red light, and the addition of eTorque, etc. Ditto for the plug gap that can range from .040 to 044. Way too much varies with the 3.6L from application to apllication (car vs truck vs Jeep)

I personally fInd it best to go to the dealership and get exactly what they show for the car. The latest plug for my Jeep retails at $19 each. A hefty price but fortunately it only takes 6 plugs.

The stupid price goes with the stupid design that requires disassembly to replace the passenger bank.

N8ECH

· #11 · 1 mo ago

When I remember, I always depress the Autostart disable button on my 3.6L Durango, so no AS for me.

Don

Reactions: 1

ONEZ ST

· #12 · 1 mo ago

The other thing madmax99, is plug torque. The 3.6 uses a 12mm plug, not a 14mm plug. The 12mm plug is prone to damage which can affect the heat range. So be sure you torque these to spec.

madmax99

Discussion Starter · #13 · 1 mo ago

Torque for the plugs: 13 ft./lbs (-/+ 2 lbs) ??

madmax99

Discussion Starter · #14 · 12 d ago

Does anybody know what is torque (ft/lbs) for the bolts that are holding down the intake manifold to the engine?

Rhill1124

· #15 · 12 d ago (Edited)

Courtesy of @krautmaster. If you use the “search community” bar at the top of your screen, you can find almost anything on this forum. Almost everything has been discussed at some point.

Correct spec is 71 inch pounds / 8NM / 6 ft lbs.

This may help also:

2017 Dodge Charger 3.6L Engine Torque Specs| Dodge Specs

Charger 3.6L engine bolt torque specs, common problems and repairs. Cylinder Head Torque specs, timing chain installation, manifolds torque specs, engine assembly.

dodge-specs.com

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