Spark Plug F Y I ...

cpmman

cpmman

Member
Just an F Y I for those that may not have known. Below is a section right out of the 2003 Service manual....Could lead to some of the electrical issues some bikes see from time to time.

Do not use spark plugs other than the specified Champion brand. :eek:

FROM 2003 SERVICE MANUAL:

SPARK PLUGS
CHAMPION SPARK PLUGS, used as original equipment in all BIG DOG motorcycles, utilize a patented semi-conductor resistor to substantially reduce radio frequency interference (RFI) created each time the spark jumps across the gap of the spark plug. This RFI can result in starting and drivability problems, loss of performance and can even cause the ignition system module to completely shut down.
It is extremely important to use Champion resistor-type plug to ensure that the onboard computer that is the basis of BIG DOG motorcycle’s ignition system, is protected from this RFI.

Do not rely on industry standard cross-referencing to find an alternative brand of spark plugs to replace your CHAMPION OEM’s with. The replacement plugs may not be of a resistor-type.

Use only CHAMPION RN12YC in S&S motors and RA8HC in TOTAL PERFORMANCE
(TP) motors. Spark plug gaps are both .040”
 
R

Ratman

Active Member
If another resistor type plug is used I personally do not believe it will matter. I have used NGK in mine since around 700 miles with no problem. Bike now has about 5700 miles.
 
Racer

Racer

Member
cpmman said:
Just an F Y I for those that may not have known. Below is a section right out of the 2003 Service manual....Could lead to some of the electrical issues some bikes see from time to time.

Do not use spark plugs other than the specified Champion brand. :eek:

FROM 2003 SERVICE MANUAL:

SPARK PLUGS
CHAMPION SPARK PLUGS, used as original equipment in all BIG DOG motorcycles, utilize a patented semi-conductor resistor to substantially reduce radio frequency interference (RFI) created each time the spark jumps across the gap of the spark plug. This RFI can result in starting and drivability problems, loss of performance and can even cause the ignition system module to completely shut down.
It is extremely important to use Champion resistor-type plug to ensure that the onboard computer that is the basis of BIG DOG motorcycle’s ignition system, is protected from this RFI.

Do not rely on industry standard cross-referencing to find an alternative brand of spark plugs to replace your CHAMPION OEM’s with. The replacement plugs may not be of a resistor-type.

Use only CHAMPION RN12YC in S&S motors and RA8HC in TOTAL PERFORMANCE
(TP) motors. Spark plug gaps are both .040”
Click to expand...
I have an 08 EFI. I purchased it used 1-1/2 ago. Decided to go ahead and change plugs. Thought it would have RN12YC plugs. It has RA8HC. I think these are colder plugs? They look borderline lean. Am I safe going back to RN12YC plugs? Any idea why it would have RA8HC plugs? Suggestions?
 
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