PBR8ES Plug Fouling Issue

[lrgabriel]

Just wanted to throw another data point out there:

My engine (angle-valve 360) has around 300 hours running BR8ES plugs on dual electronic ignition, gapped at 0.035".

Ran a second engine (parallel-valve 360) for 20 hours with the more expensive platinum version of the same plug (BR8EIX, I believe), and had a whole bunch of lead fouling. Switched back to the BR8ES, no problems since.

I second the boot zip tie trick!

[DartDriver]

Hi guys, I wanted to report back my analysis so others might benefit:

From my earlier post you'll see I was experiencing bad fouling trying to get my first flight off. After repeated cleanings and ground runs I was able to get that first flight in (because of a short taxi to the runway), but continued to have fouling problems (especially with a longer taxi). The oil in the cylinders (from the unbroken-in engine) seemed to exacerbate the problem.

I finally figured out that my fouled plugs seemed to easily foul again. So I'm blaming my ground runs after checking everything else, including idle mixture (which I adjusted 1/4 turn leaner). I got new BR8ES's ($21 for 8), gapped them to .034, and flew test flights 2&3 today, carefully leaning when possible. I am hopeful this problem is now in my past.

On another note, I want to thank everyone who posts here ... you've been a huge help during my building phase. Now that I'm in Phase 1, your support is even better!

BTW, I just want to confirm what you all already know ... this is one sweet ride!

[Wicked Stick]

Just to add another data point:
IO-360 parallel valve engine, 8.5/1 pistons, cold air induction sump.
Running two P-mag 114 ignitions with BR9ES auto plugs in all cylinders for the last two years. (started with BR8's the first year)
I make sure I buy the plugs with the solid tops instead of those screw on versions.

I make sure I set it lean on the ground once started and also after landing when taxiing back. Never once have I seen any lead build up or fouling of the plugs and I change them out every other year.

I would stick with the BR-8's until you resolve the fouling issue, as you certainly don't want a colder range plug right now.