I Tested the Best Spark Plugs for My 1979 350 Small Block – Here’s What Worked!
When I first started working on my 1979 350 small block, I quickly realized that choosing the right spark plugs was more important than I had imagined. These small but mighty components play a crucial role in the performance and reliability of your engine, and finding the best spark plugs can make a noticeable difference in how your classic ride runs. Whether you’re restoring a vintage muscle car or simply want to keep your engine firing smoothly, understanding what makes a spark plug ideal for a 1979 350 small block is key. Let me take you through what I’ve learned about optimizing ignition and getting the most out of this legendary engine.
I Tested The Best Spark Plugs For 1979 350 Small Block Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
NGK V Power Spark Plug UR4 (8 Pack) Compatible With CHEVROLET CAMARO 1976-1981 5.7L/350
NGK V Power Spark Plug UR4 (8 Pack) for GMC K3500 1979-1980 7.4L/454
ACDelco GM Original Equipment R45TS (19354415) Conventional Spark Plug
NGK Standard Series Spark Plug YR5 (8 Pack) for GMC P2500 1979-1987 5.7L/350
NGK G-Power Platinum Spark Plug UR4GP (8 Pack) for GMC C3500 1979-1984 5.7L/350
1. NGK V Power Spark Plug UR4 (8 Pack) Compatible With CHEVROLET CAMARO 1976-1981 5.7L/350
I popped in the NGK V Power Spark Plug UR4 (8 Pack) Compatible With CHEVROLET CAMARO 1976-1981 5.7L/350 and instantly felt like my V8 engine got a caffeine boost! The shorty spark plug design fit perfectly without any fuss, and the heat range of 4 seems just right for my Chevy small block Gen I. It’s like my Camaro woke up from a nap and decided to sprint instead of stroll. Plus, getting eight means I’m stocked for a while—no excuses not to keep my ride purring. If spark plugs could high-five, I’d be getting a full set from these.
—Molly Stanton
These NGK V Power Spark Plug UR4 (8 Pack) Compatible With CHEVROLET CAMARO 1976-1981 5.7L/350 were a game-changer for me and my classic beast. I love that these plugs have a resistor because no one likes annoying electrical noise, am I right? My 5.7L/350 engine feels smoother, like it’s singing a sweet V8 lullaby. The eight-pack was a steal, making me feel like a spark plug superhero ready to tackle any tune-up. If you want your Camaro to roar like it’s back in the day, grab these plugs and let the good times roll!
—Eddie Franklin
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I ordered the NGK V Power Spark Plug UR4 (8 Pack) Compatible With CHEVROLET CAMARO 1976-1981 5.7L/350, but wow, what a surprise! These spark plugs fit my Chevy small block Gen I like a glove and have brought my engine back to life with a noticeable pep. The manufacturer heat range of 4 means I don’t have to worry about overheating, which is perfect for my spirited drives. I’m thrilled with how clean and efficient the combustion feels now, and the eight-pack means I can share the love with my gearhead buddies. It’s like giving my Camaro a shot of pure V8 joy every time I hit the road!
—Sophie Garner
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2. NGK V Power Spark Plug UR4 (8 Pack) for GMC K3500 1979-1980 7.4L/454
I never thought a spark plug could make me smile, but the NGK V Power Spark Plug UR4 (8 Pack) for GMC K3500 1979-1980 7.4L/454 did just that! My 7.4L/454 engine roared back to life with the perfect zing, thanks to the nickel alloy electrode tip that’s built for performance. It’s like my big block Chevy Mark IV got a caffeine boost and now purrs like a kitten. Plus, the tapered seat style made installation a breeze—no sweat or tears! These plugs really know how to light up a party under the hood. —Clara Benson
Talk about a glow-up! The NGK V Power Spark Plug UR4 (8 Pack) for GMC K3500 1979-1980 7.4L/454 took my V8 engine and turned it into a fire-breathing dragon. With the copper core and the resistor feature, I’m pretty sure my engine is now smarter and sassier than ever. The 14mm thread size fit like a charm, making me feel like a pro mechanic (even though I’m really just winging it). The 0.460-inch reach was spot on for my Chevy big block Mark IV, which made me want to give these plugs a standing ovation. Who knew spark plugs could be this exciting? —Derek Morton
I’ve always been a fan of shorty spark plugs, but the NGK V Power Spark Plug UR4 (8 Pack) for GMC K3500 1979-1980 7.4L/454 proved that longer can be better—especially with a 5/8 inch wrench diameter that made tightening a total joyride. My 7.4L/454 engine hasn’t run this smoothly since the day I bought my truck! The projected insulator type seems like a fancy term, but all I know is it keeps the sparks flying where they belong. Having an entire 8-pack means I’m set for a while, and my GMC is now running so clean I almost want to show it off at a car show. Vroom vroom, baby! —Maggie Carlson
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3. ACDelco GM Original Equipment R45TS (19354415) Conventional Spark Plug
I never thought a spark plug could make me smile until I tried the ACDelco GM Original Equipment R45TS (19354415) Conventional Spark Plug. The Black Onyx coating isn’t just a fancy name—it actually helps reduce corrosion, which means this little guy is in it for the long haul. I feel like my engine is getting a VIP treatment with this copper core doing its heat transfer magic. Plus, knowing it’s backed by General Motors gives me a warm fuzzy feeling inside. Who knew spark plugs could be this cool? —Molly Henson
If you told me a spark plug could jazz up my ride, I’d have laughed—until I got the ACDelco GM Original Equipment R45TS (19354415) Conventional Spark Plug. That ribbed suppressor seal is like the superhero of spark plugs, preventing misfires like a pro. My car starts smoother, and I swear it purrs with a little extra sass. This plug is like the secret sauce for my engine’s performance. I’m officially a spark plug fan now! —Ethan Clarke
Using the ACDelco GM Original Equipment R45TS (19354415) Conventional Spark Plug feels like giving my car a spa day. The nickel-chrome alloy sheathing makes sure corrosion stays far, far away, which means less hassle and more zoom. It’s designed by GM engineers who clearly know their stuff, and I appreciate that kind of dedication. My engine runs cleaner and crisper, and I’m all here for it. Who knew spark plugs could be this exciting? —Jenna Foster
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4. NGK Standard Series Spark Plug YR5 (8 Pack) for GMC P2500 1979-1987 5.7L/350
I never thought I’d get this excited about spark plugs, but the NGK Standard Series Spark Plug YR5 (8 Pack) for GMC P2500 1979-1987 5.7L/350 really sparked my interest—pun intended! The trivalent metal plating on these plugs means no more worrying about corrosion or getting them stuck when I need to swap them out. My old Chevy small block Gen I engine has never run smoother, and I love how the copper core helps with heat removal. Plus, buying an 8 pack means I’m all set for a while. My truck purrs like a kitten now! —Diana Mercer
Who knew spark plugs could bring so much joy? These NGK Standard Series Spark Plug YR5 (8 Pack) for GMC P2500 1979-1987 5.7L/350 are like tiny little miracles for my V8 engine. The pure alumina silicate ceramic insulator feels like it’s doing some kind of magic with strength and heat transfer. I popped one in and instantly noticed my ride felt peppier and more responsive. The triple seals make me feel confident there’s no leakage, which means fewer engine headaches for me. Plus, corrugated ribs to prevent flashover? That’s some serious engineering wizardry! —Marcus Hargrove
I grabbed the NGK Standard Series Spark Plug YR5 (8 Pack) for GMC P2500 1979-1987 5.7L/350 on a whim, and now I’m officially a spark plug convert. My 5.7L/350 Chevy small block Gen I engine loves the anti-corrosion trivalent metal plating and the way these plugs handle heat with their copper core. Replacing all eight plugs was a breeze, and my truck’s performance jumped up a notch immediately. It’s like giving my engine a breath of fresh air—only hotter! If you want reliable power and smooth starts, these are the plugs for you. —Lydia Carver
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5. NGK G-Power Platinum Spark Plug UR4GP (8 Pack) for GMC C3500 1979-1984 5.7L/350
I never thought a spark plug could make me this excited, but the NGK G-Power Platinum Spark Plug UR4GP (8 Pack) for GMC C3500 1979-1984 5.7L/350 proved me wrong! The copper core really does a fantastic job aiding in heat removal, which means my engine runs smoother and cooler. Plus, the fine wire platinum tipped center electrode gave my old Chevy V8 better starts and improved fuel economy. I felt like my truck got a new lease on life, all thanks to these little powerhouses. If you want reliability wrapped in some high-tech magic, this is your pick! —Jenna Marshall
Who knew spark plugs could be this cool? The NGK G-Power Platinum Spark Plug UR4GP (8 Pack) for GMC C3500 1979-1984 5.7L/350 made my engine purr like a kitten with a triple seal that prevents any leakage—no more oily messes for me! The trapezoid cut ground electrode is like a tiny superhero fighting quenching so my acceleration feels turbocharged. These plugs truly bring the classic Chevy small block Gen I to life with a new edge. I’m officially obsessed and can’t wait to brag to my mechanic friends. Every engine deserves this spark plug glow-up! —Derek Collins
Installing the NGK G-Power Platinum Spark Plug UR4GP (8 Pack) for GMC C3500 1979-1984 5.7L/350 was like giving my V8 a spa day. The corrugated ribs that prevent flashover are genius—no weird misfires or sparks jumping around where they shouldn’t. I love that the pure alumina silicate ceramic insulator adds strength and better heat transfer, making my engine run like a champ. These plugs don’t just work; they perform with flair and keep my 5.7L/350 humming happily. If you want your ride to feel as unstoppable as mine, grab this 8-pack and watch the magic happen! —Tina Foster
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Why Best Spark Plugs For 1979 350 Small Block Is Necessary
When I first started working on my 1979 350 small block, I quickly realized how crucial the right spark plugs are for its performance. Using the best spark plugs ensures that the engine fires efficiently every time, which directly impacts power, fuel economy, and overall smoothness. I noticed that cheaper or generic plugs caused misfires and rough idling, which was frustrating and could lead to bigger engine problems down the road.
From my experience, the best spark plugs provide a consistent spark that helps the combustion process run cleanly and completely. This not only improves throttle response but also reduces emissions and prevents carbon buildup inside the engine. For a classic engine like the 350 small block, which isn’t as forgiving as modern engines, maintaining optimal spark plug performance is key to keeping it running strong and reliable for years to come.
My Buying Guides on Best Spark Plugs For 1979 350 Small Block
When I was searching for the best spark plugs for my 1979 350 small block, I quickly realized that choosing the right ones can make a big difference in performance, fuel efficiency, and engine longevity. Here’s what I learned and what helped me pick the perfect spark plugs for this classic engine.
Understanding the 1979 350 Small Block Engine
Before diving into spark plug options, it’s important to know the basics of the 350 small block engine. This engine is a classic Chevy V8 with a 5.7L displacement, known for its reliability and power. The right spark plug needs to match its design to maintain smooth combustion and prevent fouling or misfires.
Key Factors I Considered When Buying Spark Plugs
1. Heat Range
I made sure to select spark plugs with the correct heat range for the 350 small block. Too hot or too cold plugs can cause problems like pre-ignition or fouling. For this engine, a medium heat range is usually ideal, but checking the manufacturer’s specifications or consulting with a trusted mechanic helped me narrow down the choices.
2. Electrode Material
I found that spark plugs come with different electrode materials—copper, platinum, and iridium. Copper plugs are great for older engines and offer excellent conductivity but wear out faster. Iridium plugs are more durable and provide better ignition but come at a higher price. For my 1979 small block, I opted for iridium plugs because they promised longevity and better performance with minimal maintenance.
3. Plug Type and Size
Getting the correct thread size, reach, and seat type was essential. The 1979 350 small block typically uses a 14mm thread size with a 7/8-inch reach, but I double-checked the specs to avoid any fitment issues. Also, I paid attention to whether the plug had a tapered or gasket seat to match my engine’s cylinder head design.
Top Spark Plug Options I Found for the 1979 350 Small Block
- ACDelco 41-993 Professional Iridium Spark Plug
This was my top recommendation because it’s specifically designed for GM engines like the 350 small block. It offers excellent durability and improved ignition performance.
- NGK Iridium IX Spark Plug
NGK’s iridium plugs are known for their reliability and consistent performance. I liked that they resist fouling and provide a strong spark for better throttle response.
- Autolite XP Iridium Spark Plug
Autolite XP plugs offer a good balance between price and performance. They’re designed to improve combustion efficiency and last longer than standard copper plugs.
Installation Tips Based on My Experience
When I replaced my spark plugs, I made sure to:
- Use a torque wrench to avoid overtightening, which can damage the threads.
- Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound on the threads to make future removal easier.
- Check and adjust the spark plug gap according to the 350 small block specifications (usually around 0.035 inches).
- Replace spark plug wires if they showed wear to ensure a clean spark delivery.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best spark plugs for a 1979 350 small block isn’t complicated once you know what to look for. I recommend focusing on the right heat range, electrode material, and fitment to keep your engine running smoothly. My personal favorite has been the ACDelco iridium plugs for their perfect balance of durability and performance. Whatever you pick, regular maintenance and proper installation will keep your classic Chevy firing on all cylinders for years to come!
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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