Selecting the correct spark plug is crucial for any chainsaw’s efficient operation and performance. Without a spark plug, your chainsaw misses a tool that will provide ignition to get the engine up and running.
However, numerous spark plug options are available in the market, making it a daunting task to pick the right one for your chainsaw. Finding the perfect Stihl MS290 spark plug is even more challenging since the manufacturers of MS290 provide specific guidelines and recommendations for spark plugs.
Like most Stihl chainsaws, the MS290 uses the NGK BPMR7A spark plugs because they are compatible. I will look at the NGK BPMR7A and other Stihl MS290 spark plug options in this article.
Additionally, you will learn about Stihl MS290 spark plug maintenance and replacement, so stick around!
- Authentic Product
- NGK Spark Plugs Brand
- Individual Pack
- NGK Spark Plugs Part #4626
- Brand new, never used.
Understanding the Stihl MS290 Spark Plug
To get a clearer picture of the suitable Stihl MS290 spark plugs, you need to familiarize yourself with the essential components and features.
Build
Stihl chainsaw spark plugs typically contain vital components such as a ceramic insulator, metal shell, center electrode, ground electrode, gasket, and terminal nut.
The ceramic insulator is made of aluminum oxide, providing excellent electrical insulation properties. It does this by separating the central electrode from the metal shell. It also offers high resistance to temperature.
To facilitate the generation of the spark, the center electrode extends into the combustion chamber. The ceramic insulator prevents any electrical leakage from the center electrode. On the other hand, the ground electrode is on the opposite end to enable the spark to jump the necessary spark plug gap.
Next is the metal shell, whose primary role is to link to the spark plug wire and ground the spark plug to the engine. The terminal nut located at the top of the engine holds the spark plug wire in place.
Finally, the gasket provides a tight seal when the spark plug is installed in the cylinder head to prevent leakage of gases from the combustion chamber.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Stihl MS290 Spark Plug
Here are some essential things that you should keep in mind when picking a spark plug for your Stihl MS290:
Heat Range
Stihl spark plugs come in various heat ranges representing their ability to dissipate heat. The longer the insulator nose, the more efficiently it will dissipate heat, making the plug colder. Shorter insulator noses retain heat, making the plug hotter.
You should choose a spark plug that suits your particular operating condition. A hotter plug is more suitable for cold conditions as it prevents fouling. Colder plugs fit high-performance applications because they can dissipate heat better.
Thread Reach
What is the thread reach of a spark plug? This is the length of the threaded portion of the plug that extends into the combustion chamber. When choosing a spark plug, you must ensure it is not too short or long.
A shorter thread reach means that the plug won’t go deep enough into the combustion chamber, leading to poor combustion and performance. On the other hand, a longer thread reach may cause the spark plug to protrude too far into the combustion chamber, which may interfere with other chainsaw components.
Choosing a Stihl MS 290 spark plug with the correct thread reach will enable it to fit perfectly to ensure efficient combustion within the engine.
Determining the Correct Stihl MS290 Spark Plug
Now that you know the crucial components of a spark plug and what you need to consider before getting one, let’s take a closer look at some of the best spark plugs for the MS290 chainsaw.
One of the most popular Stihl MS290 spark plugs is the NGK (6703) BPMR7A. Many chainsaw owners have tried it and provided raving reviews. The BPMR7A is a standard spark plug with a 14mm thread diameter, a 19mm hex size, and a 0.7mm gap.
It also comes with a copper core and a nickel alloy tip which dissipates heat efficiently and is highly durable.
Another suitable option for the MS290 is the Bosch WSR6F spark plug. Like the BPMR7A, it also has a 14mm thread size. However, its hex size is 20.8mm and has a 0.5mm gap. This spark plug is made using high-quality material for reliable ignition.
If you can’t find any of the above spark plug options, consider the Champion RCJ7Y, which has a 14mm thread diameter, a 16mm hex size, and a 0.7mm gap. The RCJ7Y consists of a copper core and a platinum center electrode, providing enhanced spark ignition.
Stihl MS290 Spark Plug Replacement
Spark plugs may deteriorate after continuous usage, so you may need to replace them. Following the proper guidelines and procedures is essential to ensure you don’t mess up.
So, how do you go about it? Start by turning off your chainsaw and disconnecting the spark plug wire to avoid accidentally igniting gases in the combustion chamber. Remove the old spark plug and replace it with any of the ones I have mentioned above.
Slowly thread it in, tighten it, and firmly reconnect the spark plug wire. It’s always a good idea to test the chainsaw’s performance to check the effectiveness of the new spark plug.
What is the Importance of Using the Recommended Spark Plug
Stihl usually recommends proven spark plug brands that they trust as a replacement for theirs. Here are some of the benefits that you can get:
1. Reliable Ignition
The first obvious benefit of having a reliable Stihl MS 290 spark plug is that a recommended spark plug will generate a consistent and strong spark for reliable ignition. With a reliable ignition, you can quickly start up your saw, and it will have responsive acceleration.
2. Fuel Efficiency
Using the recommended Stihl MS 290 spark plug will help to ensure that there is optimal combustion of the fuel and increased power output.
3. Warranty Considerations
Using a spark plug the manufacturer hasn’t specified will often void your warranty. However, using a spark plug the manufacturer has recommended will ensure that potential issues are sorted out quickly at no extra expense.
4. Durability
Recommended spark plugs are designed to withstand different operating conditions reducing the likelihood of wear and tear. This reduces the frequency of repair and maintenance.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, the suitable Stihl spark plug brand for the MS290 is the NGK(6703) BPMR7A. By paying the proper attention to your spark plug and installing the recommended type, you can ensure that your chainsaw performs at its best.
However, you should remember to consult the Stihl MS290 owner’s manual or seek professional advice to help you choose the correct spark plug model. Hopefully, this post has provided you with all the information you need. You can check out some other related posts that I wrote. Cheers!
