2016 Ram 1500 Spark Plug Type & Gap

Quick reference

Why the right plug matters

Choosing the correct spark plug for your 2016 Ram 1500 is critical for optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions. There's more to a spark plug than just making a spark; key factors include heat range, electrode material, and gap.

Heat Range: This refers to the plug's ability to dissipate heat from the combustion chamber. A plug that's too "cold" (dissipates heat too quickly) can lead to carbon buildup and misfires. A plug that's too "hot" (dissipates heat too slowly) can cause pre-ignition and engine damage. The OEM specified heat range is carefully selected for your engine's operating conditions.

Electrode Metal:

• Copper: These are the most common and least expensive. Copper is an excellent conductor, but wears relatively quickly, requiring more frequent replacement (typically 30,000 miles). They are often found in older engines or engines with lower compression ratios.
• Platinum: Platinum plugs offer improved durability over copper thanks to a fine platinum tip on the center electrode. This allows for a longer service interval (around 60,000 miles).
• Iridium: Iridium is an even harder and more durable metal than platinum, allowing for exceptionally fine-wire electrodes. These plugs provide the longest service life (100,000+ miles) and often offer improved ignitability and fuel efficiency. Both of the 2016 Ram 1500's engine options utilize iridium-tipped plugs from the factory, highlighting their performance and longevity benefits.

How to gap a spark plug

While many modern iridium spark plugs come pre-gapped from the factory, it's always a good idea to check the gap, especially for copper or platinum plugs. For your 2016 Ram 1500, verify the gap according to the table above.

To gap a spark plug:

1. Use a wire gap gauge: Avoid using a disc-style gauge as it can damage fine-wire electrodes.
2. Slide the gauge wire: Carefully slide the correct thickness wire of the gauge between the center and ground electrodes.
3. Adjust if necessary: If the gap is too small, gently bend the ground electrode outwards with the gapping tool. If it's too large, carefully tap the ground electrode on a hard, non-marring surface to close the gap slightly. Always be gentle to avoid damaging the delicate electrode.

Replacement procedure tips

Replacing spark plugs on your 2016 Ram 1500 is a manageable DIY job for many, but some tips can make it smoother.

Coil-on-Plug Removal: Both the 3.6L Pentastar V6 and the 5.7L Hemi V8 use a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system. To remove the spark plug, you'll first need to disconnect the electrical connector from the ignition coil and then remove the coil itself (usually held in with one or two bolts). A gentle twist and pull motion can help free the coil boot from the spark plug.

Anti-Seize Debate: There's ongoing debate about using anti-seize on spark plug threads. For spark plugs with nickel-plated shells (common with modern plugs, including the OEM NGK plugs for your Ram), anti-seize is generally not recommended. The nickel plating provides adequate anti-seize properties, and adding more can over-tighten the plug, potentially damaging the cylinder head threads or distorting the plug. Always consult the spark plug manufacturer's recommendations. If you do use anti-seize on non-plated plugs, use a very small amount and reduce the torque specification by approximately 10-20%.

Dielectric Grease on Boots: Applying a small amount of dielectric grease inside the spark plug boot (where it contacts the porcelain) is a good practice. This helps to seal out moisture, prevents the boot from sticking to the plug, and aids in easier removal next time.

Known issues

Fortunately, the 2016 Ram 1500 with either the 3.6L Pentastar or the 5.7L Hemi does not have widely reported endemic spark plug issues like the older Ford 3-valve modular engines with their tendency for two-piece plugs to break. Regular maintenance and using the correct spark plugs will ensure trouble-free operation.

Need plugs replaced? Find a shop on Repairius.