Spark Plugs

[Ballad_Black]

I've randomy heard of spark plugs used in ignition. From what i've gathered about, these apparently make good sparks, but how so? Wireing them up just doesnt come to me, but heres an idea. Flawed, im sure.

Using a bbq ignitor(?).
Run a wire from the positive on the BBQ to the top of the plug, and run a wire from the negative to the bottom of the plug, and it increases the spark in the gap.

That idea seems too easy and dumb, so Im pretty sure its not right, little help?

[guitarfreak]

ive done that,and it works good,although you'll need to way open the spark gap on it.

[Elmaca]

you can use a OP amp. that will make a bigger spark

[r0n]

How dod u use a op amp to make a bigger spark?

[frankrede]

I've randomy heard of spark plugs used in ignition. From what i've gathered about, these apparently make good sparks, but how so? Wireing them up just doesnt come to me, but heres an idea. Flawed, im sure.

Using a bbq ignitor(?).
Run a wire from the positive on the BBQ to the top of the plug, and run a wire from the negative to the bottom of the plug, and it increases the spark in the gap.

That idea seems too easy and dumb, so Im pretty sure its not right, little help?

Actually, That might work. Im sure there is a different way of doing it though. But that might be it. I have been considering a spark plug type combustion lately too.

[carlbelcher]

You are right on how to wire the spark plug. I personally don't recommend BBQ grill igniters they are more trouble then they are worth. I would use a stun gun or even a lantern sparker over a BBQ grill igniter.

[Anon]

Yes a BBQ ignitor would work, an electric one though. But you would be much better off using a stun gun setup much more power because a spark plug is usually on a 12volt setup unless you use a small engine one which would be perfect with a BBQ ignitor. The tool used for setting spark gaps are called feeler guages (not sure if thats correct spelling) just metal with metal thickness marked on them. Or you can use your own metal but know the thickness.

[carlbelcher]

First of all spark plug don't use 12volts more like 20,000 volts, yes the coil uses 12 volts in most cars, but 12 volts is nowhere near enough voltage to create an open-air spark.

Second of all, you don't have to gap your spark plugs, but the bigger the spark the better chance you will have of get your cannon to fire. If you do deiced to use a spark plug with a stun gun you can open the plug gap as much as you want and you'll still get a good spark. If you use a BBQ igniter you still don't need to use a plug gapping tool to set the gap, just spread it open as wide as you can while still getting a spark.(which will be much wider then it is out of the package)

[Anon]

I was aware it takes alot of volts for a spark plug but I was assuming he would be using the coil. And if you look at the last sentence of my post its the same as you saying you dont need a gap tool. ^_^ but ballad_black hope ya decide on something.

[carlbelcher]

Or you can use your own metal but know the thickness.

I don't think you get my point. I trying to tell you that you don't need to precicely gap the plug. Even with a BBQ grill igniter you will get much more voltage then you would need to spark even with a 1/2" plug gap. No need for gapping tool or a piece of metal that I "know the thickness of".

[frankrede]

Okay, could someone make a paint drawing(doesnt have to be fancy) on how you would setup a stun gun or bbq igniter to a spark plug?

[boilingleadbath]

Same damn way you'd wire it for a BBQ sparker.

What's wrong with the world?
Why do people think the laws of physics/electricity/biology/tennessee change whenever they change a minor detail like how they are generating the high-voltage discharge?

[Anon]

Yes the wiring for it is very easy just like boilingleadbath said. The stun gun was only mentioned as a suggestion for better performance but to try it out a BBQ iginitor will work. The thickness of metal isnt required for gapping carl but for some people its just nice to know.

[spud man]

I used a spark plug it was to samll and its not worth putting a big hole in your cahmber screws work better.

[frankrede]

Same damn way you'd wire it for a BBQ sparker.

What's wrong with the world?
Why do people think the laws of physics/electricity/biology/tennessee change whenever they change a minor detail like how they are generating the high-voltage discharge?

Ok, I wasnt sure how you would wire it. I am not an expert when it comes to spark plugs. Wher does the negative go?Where the f* does the negative wire connect? No need for you to insult me. When I install a spark plug(on a motorcycle) I only know of one wire the one that goes on the top of the plug. I dont know where it grounds.