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I didn't know that. It was weird to me to see it just one cylinder pull that much timing. Still trying to grasp this new found ( to me) information
And the 4th cylinder is like that on many ST's including mine. Do a log with Cobb stage 0, it's supposed to be the same as stock.
 
The timing being pulled was not too dramatic this time. I made a quick graph to highlight what's going on in the log. Sometimes it's easier to show this graphically.

 
Post 224 ltr6 with Cobb stage 2 and FSW stage 2 same tunes ltr7 all on the same tank of gas, same ambient temp 3rd gear pulls.

Post 229 ltr7 only same FSW stage 2 tune. Same tank of gas as 224. 3rd gear pull, ign corr 1 thru 4.

Post 231 ltr7 only same Cobb stage 2 tune. Same tank of fuel as 224. 3rd gear pull ign corr 1 thru 4.

Post 242 was done on a different tank of fuel from the same station same tunes. Ltr7 plugs, 2nd thru 4th pull, ign corr 1 thru 4. Same Cobb stage 2 and FSW stage 2 tunes
 
I go to an auto parts store to buy a gapping tool and shims for my denso iridium plugs (cold step 1), and the guy basically said iridium plugs should never be re-gapped, it's too brittle, don't put shims in it'll damage the electrode, etc. and scares me out of buying the tools for the time being.
Is he full of it? Do I not need to check each plug for the same gap distance? Should I just throw them in the car as is?
 
I go to an auto parts store to buy a gapping tool and shims for my denso iridium plugs (cold step 1), and the guy basically said iridium plugs should never be re-gapped, it's too brittle, don't put shims in it'll damage the electrode, etc. and scares me out of buying the tools for the time being.
Is he full of it? Do I not need to check each plug for the same gap distance? Should I just throw them in the car as is?
I had zero issues gaping my NGKs. You just have to be gentle and patient. Got them installed on Saturday and everything is running perfect.
 
I had zero issues gaping my NGKs. You just have to be gentle and patient. Got them installed on Saturday and everything is running perfect.
Are the NGKs iridium as well?
How easy is the install? I've never done it. But I did stay in at a holiday inn and watched a YouTube vid on installing plugs on a 09 focus.
Do I need dielectric grease and all anti seize goo? Any light shed on this would be awesome.
Step by step with pictures even!
 
The key is to not apply pressure against the electrode tip. So opening the gap would be a challenge.

Good thing is that you only need to close the gap on them. Tap the ground strap gently to close the gap and measure the gap with feeler gauges. Don't force anything against the electrode tip and all will be well.
 
Are the NGKs iridium as well?
How easy is the install? I've never done it. But I did stay in at a holiday inn and watched a YouTube vid on installing plugs on a 09 focus.
Do I need dielectric grease and all anti seize goo? Any light shed on this would be awesome.
Step by step with pictures even!
I thought I read somewhere that anti seize is not recommended on newer cars? There definitely was no anti seize on the stock plugs.

I recommend using a tool like this for the gap adjustment. Pushing on the electrode takes a lot of force. This tool makes it much easier. Plus, chances are you will go a bit too far simply pushing on the electrode and without this tool you will not have a safe way to adjust it back open. There is nothing to pry against in this case and it will undoubtedly damage the plug without this tool.

Be sure you have the proper size spark plug socket and at least a 6" socket extension. The access hole to get down to the spark plug is a bit tight, so the plug socket will need to be as narrow as possible.
 
That and the spacers swatch tool I was about to purchase. I'll head out now and grab em along with my first oil change at 5,000 miles :) Penzoil ultra 5w-30 right?

Edit: just for the record my densos arrived are measuring a gap of .0265
 
I was just sent a pm by someone asking if they should change plugs as they are now at stage 2. I'm definitely not a protuner by any means and I'm still learning but I'd thought I'd post my response to further discussion on the topic.

I'm still testing but it would seem that one step cooler has no real over all effect on a stage 2. Working with Alex the numbers look good and he supports the idea of running the coldest plug you can get away with to reduce the chance of pre ignition and that doesn't effect drive ability. Skizzo is working on long term drivability data but I think it's looking like no problems. It seems the hotter plugs. may be for emissions purposes. I'm curious what the number will look like in our Phoenix summers. Day time temps around 115 +/- and night temps around 95 +/-. My recommendation is fill up with a tank of gas your going to use, take some data logs to post, and let those in the know critique your numbers.
 
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