High Output Coils

[Mark Mellott]

It is time to replace the ignition coils on my 2002 Pathfinder SE. I cannot seem to find a high output voltage brand like Accel or MSD that is made for my year and make of Pathfinder. OEM replacements do not even list what their output voltage is. Anyone out there with a recommendation for aftermarket coil-on-plug replacements?

[asnorton44]

I went with Hitachi coils.

[Chuck Tribolet]

You don't need anything special. Just go with OEM (I would) or and OEM equivalent.

And what makes you think it's time?

Chuck

[donald]

And what makes you think it's time?

echo that question I'd like to know too.
I have 205K (miles) on my Q and I haven't noticed anything that might suggest a coil replacement (God forbid I need it).

[Mark Mellott]

Typical ignition coils put out 20 to 30 thousands volts to the spark plugs. This is just enough voltage to create an adequate spark ignition and flame kernel growth. It is the size of this flame kernel growth created in the milliseconds at the top end of the compression stroke that assure a complete burn. The faster the kernel is created, more power is realized quicker and every bit of fuel possible is burned faster. This results in more horsepower and mpg. Racing enthusiasts will use hot coils that put out 40 to 50 thousand volts to get that performance edge. Casual cars can also benefit from this voltage boost. Especially at the low end where you will notice the increase in acceleration. Gaining a solid 1 to 3 mpg is a big plus as well for a car that typically get 16 around town and 20 on the highway. Over time the stock 20 to 30 thousand volt coils start to lose a bit of their punch, noticeable in slight sluggish low end acceleration, and this is where I can tell it is time for a replacement.

I finally found one for my Pathfinder. WeaponX makes high performance ignition parts for high end performance cars. The Shelby Cobra 1000 comes standard with WeaponX coils. They have been making hot coils for casual cars as well. This past May they introduced one for my year, make, and model. They are a bit pricey but cost less that what the dealership charges for a stock coil. I'll reply back when I get them in and let you know how they work out.