2020 Ram ProMaster Spark Plug Type & Gap

Quick Reference

Why the right plug matters

Choosing the correct spark plug for your 2020 Ram ProMaster is more than just grabbing any plug that fits the hole. The right spark plug ensures optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, and longevity. The "right" plug encompasses several critical factors: heat range, electrode material, and proper gapping.

• Heat Range: Spark plugs are designed with a specific heat range, which refers to their ability to dissipate heat from the combustion chamber. A "hotter" plug retains more heat, while a "colder" plug dissipates heat more quickly. Using a plug that's too hot can lead to pre-ignition and engine damage, while a plug that's too cold can cause carbon fouling. Your ProMaster's 3.6L Pentastar V6 is engineered for a specific heat range, and using anything outside of the OEM recommendation can negatively impact performance and engine health.

• Electrode Material:

  • Iridium: This is the most common and recommended material for modern engines like the Pentastar V6. Iridium plugs offer exceptional durability and a very fine electrode tip, which allows for a more focused and efficient spark. This translates to longer service intervals (often 100,000 miles or more) and consistent performance.
  • Platinum: Platinum plugs offer good durability and a longer lifespan than copper, typically around 60,000-80,000 miles. They are often used as an alternative to iridium in some applications, but for your ProMaster, iridium is the factory choice.
  • Copper: While excellent conductors of electricity, copper plugs have the shortest lifespan due to their softer material and larger electrode, typically requiring replacement every 20,000-30,000 miles. They are not recommended for the 2020 Ram ProMaster.

For your 2020 Ram ProMaster with the 3.6L Pentastar V6, the factory-specified plugs are iridium, designed for their long life and consistent performance.

How to gap a spark plug

The spark plug gap is the distance between the center electrode and the ground electrode. An incorrect gap can lead to misfires, reduced fuel economy, and poor engine performance. While many iridium plugs come pre-gapped from the factory, it's crucial to always verify the gap before installation.

To gap a spark plug:

1. Use the correct tool: A wire-type feeler gauge or a dedicated spark plug gapping tool is recommended. Avoid using coin-style gappers, as they can damage the fine iridium tip.
2. Measure the gap: Carefully slide the correct thickness wire gauge between the electrodes. It should have a slight drag.
3. Adjust if necessary: If the gap is too small, gently pry the ground electrode open slightly with the gapping tool. If it's too large, gently tap the ground electrode on a clean, hard surface to close the gap. Be extremely careful not to touch or damage the delicate iridium center electrode.
4. Re-measure: Always re-measure after any adjustment to ensure accuracy.

For your 2020 Ram ProMaster 3.6L Pentastar V6, the recommended gap is 0.043 inches (1.1 mm).

Replacement procedure tips

Replacing spark plugs on your 2020 Ram ProMaster with the 3.6L Pentastar V6 is a manageable DIY task, but a few tips can make the process smoother:

• Cool Engine: Always let the engine cool completely before starting. Working on a hot engine can increase the risk of stripping threads in the cylinder head.
• Coil-on-Plug Removal: The 3.6L Pentastar uses a coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system. Each spark plug has its own ignition coil directly mounted on top. To remove, disconnect the electrical connector, then depress the retaining clip and pull the coil straight up. Inspect the coil boots for cracks or signs of wear and replace if necessary.
• Anti-Seize Debate: There's ongoing discussion about the use of anti-seize on spark plug threads. Mopar generally advises against using anti-seize with nickel-plated spark plugs (common in modern vehicles) because it can alter the torque readings, leading to over-tightening. The factory plugs are designed with a coating that prevents seizing. If you do choose to use anti-seize, apply a very thin coat and reduce the torque specification by approximately 10-20% to compensate.
• Dielectric Grease: Apply a small amount of dielectric grease inside the spark plug boots before reinstalling the coils. This helps prevent moisture intrusion, eases future removal, and ensures good electrical insulation.
• Torque Wrench: Always use a torque wrench to tighten the new spark plugs to the manufacturer's specifications (15-20 lb-ft or 20-27 Nm for the 3.6L Pentastar V6). Over-tightening can damage the spark plug and cylinder head threads, while under-tightening can lead to compression leaks and misfires.

Known issues

Fortunately, the 3.6L Pentastar V6 in the 2020 Ram ProMaster does not have any widespread, notoriously difficult spark plug-related issues like the two-piece plugs found in some older Ford engines or ionization-sensing coils in certain GM applications. However, proper care during installation is still paramount to avoid self-induced problems.

Common issues are usually related to improper installation, such as cross-threading, incorrect torque, or damaging the delicate iridium tips during gapping or installation.

Need plugs replaced? Find a shop on Repairius.