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May 12, 2025

2025 RB26 Spark Plug & Ignition Guide For R32, R33, and R34



📝 Overview

This 2025 update consolidates accurate specs, best practices, and field-tested options for spark plugs and coils used in Nissan's RB26DETT engines across the R32, R33, and R34 Skyline GT-Rs. We've included NGK designations, heat ranges, vehicle compatibility, and why reach and coil fitment matter.

BCPR7EIX from Brian's R32 GT-R

🔩 Spark Plug Specifications

FeatureValue
Thread Size14 mm
Hex Size16 mm (5/8")
Reach19 mm (JIS "C" type)
Seat TypeGasket
OEM Gap1.1 mm (PFR6A-11)
ResistorYes (required for EFI/ECU)
BCPR7EIX - great one heat range cooler than stock spark plug for Nissan Skyline GT-R

Applies to:

  • R32 GT-R (1989–1994)
  • R33 GT-R (1995–1998)
  • R34 GT-R (1999–2002)


🔥 Recommended NGK Spark Plugs (2025)

PlugHeatGapNotesAmazon Link
PFR6A-1161.1mmOEM platinum; stock or mild boost (~300–400hp)Buy on Amazon
BCPR6EIX60.8mmIridium version; smoother burn, longer lifeBuy on Amazon
BCPR7EIX70.8mmOne step colder; 400–550hp setupsBuy on Amazon
BCPR8EIX80.7mmTwo steps colder; 550–700hp, aggressive boostBuy on eBay
R7436-880.7mmDouble fine wire iridium racing plugBuy on eBay
R7436-990.6mmTrack-focused 700+ hp buildsBuy on eBay
R7436-10100.6mmExtreme conditions, methanol or sustained high boost useBuy on eBay

NGK Heat Range: Lower = hotter; Higher = colder (e.g., 2 = very hot, 11 = very cold)


🔥 NGK IRI vs IX Series – What’s the Difference?

NGK’s IRI-series spark plugs—marketed in Japan as Iritop, Iriway, and Irimac—are technically identical to the IX-series plugs sold in the US and Europe. These plugs share the same materials, dimensions, and fine-wire iridium construction. The only differences are packaging and regional branding.

⚙️ IRI to IX Cross Reference Chart

IRI Series IX Part Number Notes
IRITOP7 BCPR7EIX JIS length – common RB26 plug
IRITOP8 BCPR8EIX JIS length – Japan only
IRITOP9 BCPR9EIX JIS length – very cold, Japan only
IRIWAY7 BKR7EIX ISO alternative – 2.5mm shorter
IRIWAY8 BKR8EIX ISO – US alternative to IRITOP8
IRIWAY9 BKR9EIX ISO – US coldest option
IRIMAC8 DCPR8EIX For select Nissan platforms
IRIMAC9 DCPR9EIX Alternate fitment – not RB26

📌 US Availability Tip

  • BCPR7EIX: Available in the US (IRITOP7 equivalent)
  • BCPR8EIX: Japan only – source as IRITOP8
  • BKR8EIX: ISO length fallback – not JIS; 2.5mm shorter

⚠️ Important: Using ISO (K-series) plugs in place of JIS (C-series) plugs may affect coil seating or combustion efficiency on RB26DETT engines. Always verify clearance and fitment when using substitutes.

🧾 NGK Plug Decoding (e.g., PFR6A-11)

  • P = Premium platinum
  • F = 14 mm thread, 19 mm reach, 16 mm hex
  • R = Resistor
  • 6 = Heat range
  • A = Firing end design
  • -11 = 1.1 mm factory gap (for OEM ignition)



🔥 2025 RB26 Spark Plug Chart (R32, R33, R34 GT-R)

This chart helps select the right NGK spark plug based on power level, fuel, and use case for your RB26DETT-powered Skyline GT-R.

Power Level Fuel Type Use Case Boost Level NGK Plug Model Heat Range Gap Notes
250–350 hp 91–93 Pump Street / Mild Tune 10–12 psi PFR6A-11 6 1.1mm OEM platinum, long life
300–450 hp 91–93 Pump Aggressive Street 12–15 psi BCPR6EIX / BCPR7EIX 6 / 7 0.8mm Iridium for sharper spark
400–550 hp E85 / 100+ Street/Track 15–22 psi BCPR7EIX 7 0.8mm Best for mixed use
500–650 hp E85 / 100+ Track / High Boost 20–28 psi BCPR8EIX 8 0.7mm Colder plug for detonation resistance
600–800 hp E85 / Race Track Only 25–30+ psi R7436-9 9 0.6mm Double fine wire, racing plug
700–900+ hp E85 / Race Drag / Circuit 30+ psi R7436-10 10 0.6mm Track use only, frequent inspection

Note: Always verify coil compatibility, dwell timing, and plug seating depth. RB26 requires JIS-length plugs (e.g., BCPR, not BKR).

📏 Coil Fitment Note (JIS vs ISO Length)

CodeReachTypeTotal LengthNotes
BC19 mmJIS~53.0 mmCorrect for R32/R33/R34 RB26DETT – coil seats properly
BK19 mmISO~50.5 mmMay not allow full coil engagement; can arc or misfire

⚠️ Always Use Resistor Plugs

  • Prevent RFI to ECU/MAF/CAS
  • Stabilizes spark signal
  • Prevents electrical interference

🔌 Ignition Coils by GT-R Model

ModelCoil TypeIgnitor RequiredNotes
R32Early externalYesExternal ignitor module on head
R33Early externalYesSame as R32
R34Late smart coilNoInternal ignitor (drop-in style)

🔍 What's Next ?

  • Verified replacement for NGK R7436 series (discontinued)
  • Dyno testing modern NGK Ruthenium plugs in RB26

How to read spark plugs, but not talk to them. 



Buy USA Legal R32, R33, and R34 Skylines at Toprank Importers!
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Nissan Skyline Parts and Toys

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