Optimax spark plug sticker shock

[Paul V]

I just picked up a set of plugs for my 135 Opti at a marine dealer. I had heard that they were expensive, but YIKES! $100 for a set of plugs seems a bit pricey. Could these platinum plugs really cost that much more to produce, or are we just getting ripped off? I had tried a few auto parts stores, but they didn't have them. Does anyone know someplace that sells these plugs for less money, or is this the going rate all over? I used to put new plugs in my trusty old Johnson 70 every spring, but at these prices, maybe new plugs every other year will have to suffice.

[Prchjerker]

Its pretty much the going rate all over.You shouldnt have to replace your plugs this soon with the optimax technologies. Most guys will get by by changing them every couple years.

[acp]

Here is an excerpt from an email I received a few months ago. I have never verified this source, but it's worth a try. Maybe your local auto parts dealer could order them.

===========================

I've found a source for these plugs, the NGK PZFR5-11. $11.71 each from
Monarch Products at 1-888-800-9629. Monarch also sells the NGK ZFR5F-11,
a non-platinum equivalent for
$2.32 each. Both are sold in sets of four, so you'll need two sets.

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Later....

Al

[Nofish]

Hey Perchjerker,

Why are you replacing the plugs?

I used to replace my outboard plugs every year with the carbuerated motors.

With the EFI's I changed the plugs every other year and was told I was wasting money by the Merc Tech Rep.

With the Opti Max, you shouldn't need to ever change the plugs, or at least for a very long time. Even every other year is supposed to be overkill.

If your plugs are fouled up and need changing, get your Opti serviced by a certified Opti Mechanic, something is wrong if this is what's happening.

Let us know if this si the case.

Good luck........R

[Perchjerker]

Im not changing my plugs, I was just saying that the price of them is about the norm.You should have to change your plugs in the Optis, the only time Ive seen someone have to change plugs was our local DNR patrol boat, they had over 300 hours on that engine in half a season.With the optis you should be able to forget the annual spring ritual of changing plugs.