Tempest Aviation Spark Plugs

Premium Aircraft Spark Plugs for Lycoming and Continental Engines - European Distributor

World's Best Aviation Spark Plugs - Made in USA

Your European Source for Tempest Spark Plugs

Airpart Supply is an authorised European distributor for Tempest Aero Accessories spark plugs, delivering premium ignition components to general aviation operators across the EU from our Dublin warehouse. Tempest manufactures aviation spark plugs using the most automated manufacturing processes and innovative designs in the industry. Whether you operate Lycoming or Continental powered aircraft, Tempest spark plugs deliver exceptional performance, extended service life, and outstanding value compared to competitor products. Available in both massive electrode and fine wire iridium configurations, Tempest plugs feature proprietary manufacturing processes including their exclusive fired-in resistor technology, vacuum-infused centre electrodes, and Hot-Lock assembly for reliable, long-lasting performance in demanding aviation environments. With competitive pricing and fast delivery from our EU warehouse, European operators can access these premium American-made spark plugs without customs delays or additional import duties. Contact us at [email protected] for availability and pricing.

Tempest Spark Plug Technology Features

Massive Electrode Spark Plugs

Tempest massive electrode spark plugs feature the Clean Collar design with a V-tip that focuses heat to reduce fouling and enhance heat range control. These plugs typically provide 400-500 hours of reliable service with proper maintenance and rotation every 100 hours. The massive electrode design offers excellent value for operators who perform regular spark plug maintenance as part of their engine maintenance programme.

5/8"-24 Thread (3/4" Wrench) - Short Reach

3/4"-20 Thread (7/8" Wrench) - Long Reach

Fine Wire Iridium Spark Plugs

Tempest fine wire spark plugs utilise a single iridium electrode that provides exceptional longevity - typically 1,000-1,500 hours of service life. The fine wire design creates a more exposed, hotter spark that promotes complete combustion and can improve fuel efficiency by approximately 2% compared to massive electrode plugs. Fine wire plugs are less susceptible to lead and carbon fouling, making them ideal for operators who fly frequently or want to minimise maintenance requirements.

5/8"-24 Thread (3/4" Wrench) - Short Reach

3/4"-20 Thread (7/8" Wrench) - Long Reach

Massive Electrode vs Fine Wire: Which Should You Choose?

Tip: Some operators install fine wire plugs in the bottom cylinder positions (more prone to fouling) and massive electrode plugs in the top positions to balance cost and performance. Always replace with the same heat rating as the plugs being removed.

Selecting the Correct Tempest Spark Plug

Choosing the correct spark plug for your Lycoming or Continental engine requires knowing several key specifications:

Harness Thread Size

Check your ignition harness B-nut size - this is the nut that connects to the spark plug. It will be either 5/8"-24 (uses 3/4" wrench) or 3/4"-20 (uses 7/8" wrench). The thread size is typically indicated by the second letter in the part number: E = 5/8"-24, H = 3/4"-20.

Reach (Long vs Short)

Spark plug reach is determined by your specific engine model. Always replace with the same reach plug that was removed. Installing incorrect reach plugs can damage engine components.

Heat Rating

The numeric value in the part number indicates heat rating - lower numbers = colder plug, higher numbers = hotter plug. Best practice is to use the same heat-rated plug as currently installed. Common ratings include 32, 36, 37, 38, and 40.

Understanding Part Numbers

Tempest part numbers follow a logical structure:

• U = Tempest brand (vs Champion which has no prefix)
• R = Resistor plug
• E or H = Thread size (E = 5/8"-24, H = 3/4"-20)
• B or M = Reach designation
• Number = Heat rating (32, 36, 37, 38, 40)
• E or S = Electrode type (E = massive, S = fine wire)
• BY = Projected core design (special anti-fouling)

For the complete Tempest spark plug application guide, visit www.aeroaccessories.com or contact our sales team for assistance.

Spark Plug Resistance: Why It Matters

How many Ohms of resistance are your spark plugs creating? Proper resistor function is critical for spark plug performance and magneto protection. The resistor limits arc current, reduces electrode erosion, and minimises RF interference that can affect avionics and communications equipment.

Tempest Resistance Specifications

• Typical operating range: 1,000-1,500 Ohms
• New plug specification: 500-2,500 Ohms
• Minimum acceptable: 500 Ohms
• Maximum acceptable: 5,000 Ohms

Plugs with resistance below 500 Ohms or above 5,000 Ohms should be replaced immediately. High resistance plugs can damage magneto coils over time. Tempest offers a lifetime guarantee on their proprietary fired-in resistor technology.

Testing Method: Clean the firing end of lead, carbon and oil deposits. Using a multi-meter, place one lead on the centre electrode and the second lead on the contact point inside the spark plug terminal well. Alternatively, use the Tempest AT5K resistance tester for accurate readings. Learn more about spark plug resistance testing.

Spark Plug Maintenance Best Practices

Rotation

Rotate spark plugs every 100 hours to equalise electrode wear caused by constant polarity and capacitance after-fire. Move plugs from top to bottom positions (or vice versa) and change from positive to negative polarity locations. Use a Tempest spark plug tray (P/N T240) and follow the rotation guide included with every Tempest spark plug box.

Cleaning and Gapping

For massive electrode plugs, clean and check gap at every 100-hour inspection. Fine wire plugs require less frequent maintenance but should still be inspected regularly. Standard gap specification is 0.015"-0.021" (0.38-0.53mm). Never exceed these limits as improper gaps affect ignition timing and engine performance.

Installation Tips

• Apply spark plug thread lubricant (Tempest T556) sparingly to the second and third threads only
• Never allow lubricant to contact electrodes or insulator nose - this can short out the plug
• Thread plugs in by hand first - if resistance is felt, remove and try again
• Torque to manufacturer specifications for your engine
• Check for proper harness connection and secure B-nut installation

Preventing Lead Fouling

Lead fouling appears as hard ash-type deposits and can be caused by cold operating temperatures or high-lead fuel content. Aggressive leaning during low-power operations (taxi, descent) helps prevent lead deposits. Avoid selecting full rich mixture on descent as this accelerates massive electrode fouling. Consider quality engine oils and additives like CamGuard to help maintain engine and ignition system health.

Aircraft and Engine Applications

Tempest spark plugs are approved for use in virtually all Lycoming and Continental Motors piston aircraft engines. Common applications include:

Complete Your Ignition System

For optimal engine performance, consider these related products alongside your Tempest spark plugs:

More from Tempest Aero Accessories

Airpart Supply is your authorised European distributor for the complete Tempest product range:

• Tempest Oil Filters - Premium filtration for Lycoming and Continental engines
• Tempest Products Overview - View our complete Tempest range
• Maintenance Tools - Spark plug trays, gap tools, and resistance testers
• Thread Lubricants - T556 anti-seize compound for proper installation

Why Order Tempest Spark Plugs from Airpart Supply?

Order Tempest Spark Plugs Today

Contact our sales team for pricing, availability, and technical assistance with spark plug selection.

Email: [email protected]