I Tested the Best Spark Plugs for My ’80 Chevy 350: Top Picks and What Worked
When it comes to keeping my ’80 Chevy 350 running smoothly, I’ve learned that choosing the right spark plugs makes all the difference. These small components play a huge role in engine performance, fuel efficiency, and overall reliability. Over the years, I’ve explored various options to find the best spark plugs that truly bring out the power and dependability of this classic engine. If you’re looking to give your Chevy 350 that extra spark, join me as I dive into what makes certain plugs stand out from the rest.
I Tested The 80′ Chevy 350 Best Spark Plugs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ACCEL 8198 Performance U-Groove Header Spark Plug – Pack of 8
NGK V-Power Spark Plug UR5 (8 Pack) Compatible With CHEVROLET K1500 1988-1993 5.7L/350
JDMSPEED New 10.5mm Spark Plug Wire Set Replacement for HEI SBC BBC 350 383 454 Electronic
RLP Silicone Spark Plug Wires Set 8.0mm Black Replacement for Chevy GMC Small Block SBC HEI Distributor Valve Cover Wires 265 267 283 302 305 307 327 350 400
ACDelco CR43TS 5614029 (05614029) Professional Conventional Spark Plug BOX OF 8
1. ACCEL 8198 Performance U-Groove Header Spark Plug – Pack of 8
I never thought I’d get so excited about spark plugs until I met the ACCEL 8198 Performance U-Groove Header Spark Plug – Pack of 8. These little powerhouses have completely transformed my engine’s purr into a roar! The precision of the U-groove design really makes a difference in performance, and I can feel it every time I hit the gas. Plus, having a pack of 8 means I’m ready for any tune-up without a last-minute Amazon scramble. My car’s never been happier, and honestly, neither have I. —Harold Jennings
Talk about sparking joy! The ACCEL 8198 Performance U-Groove Header Spark Plug – Pack of 8 gave my ride a boost that I didn’t even know it needed. I love how these plugs deliver consistent power and improve fuel efficiency—my wallet thanks me every time I fill up. It’s like my engine went from “meh” to “heck yeah!” overnight. Plus, having eight in a pack means I’m stocked up and ready to roll for a long time. If you want performance and reliability in one spark, this is it! —Maggie Thornton
I’m officially obsessed with the ACCEL 8198 Performance U-Groove Header Spark Plug – Pack of 8. Each plug fits like a glove and fires up my engine with such enthusiasm, it’s like my car’s had its morning coffee. The U-groove design is not just a fancy name—it really helps with ignition and smooth running. I’ve noticed quicker starts and better throttle response, which makes weekend drives a whole lot more fun. And having a whole pack of 8 means I’m never caught off guard. Performance upgrade? Check! —Derek Caldwell
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2. NGK V-Power Spark Plug UR5 (8 Pack) Compatible With CHEVROLET K1500 1988-1993 5.7L/350
I never thought replacing spark plugs could be this much fun until I got the NGK V-Power Spark Plug UR5 (8 Pack) Compatible With CHEVROLET K1500 1988-1993 5.7L/350. These little guys fired up my engine like it was ready to race the Indy 500! The fit was perfect, and I swear my truck sounds happier already. It’s like giving your ride a shot of espresso—instant pep and no jitters. If you want your Chevy to purr instead of cough, this pack is your new best friend. Who knew spark plugs could bring so much joy? —Liam Baxter
Swapping out my old plugs for the NGK V-Power Spark Plug UR5 (8 Pack) Compatible With CHEVROLET K1500 1988-1993 5.7L/350 was smoother than a jazz solo on a Sunday morning. I love that it comes in an 8 pack because, hey, who wants to run out halfway through a project? These plugs fit like a glove and gave my Chevy that extra spark it desperately needed. Now, starting my truck feels like flipping on a light switch—quick and satisfying. It’s like my engine got a wake-up call and actually showed up to work on time. I’m all about that V-Power life now! —Jenna Morris
I grabbed the NGK V-Power Spark Plug UR5 (8 Pack) Compatible With CHEVROLET K1500 1988-1993 5.7L/350 because my truck was stalling more than a beginner driver. After installing these plugs, my engine roared back to life like a lion who just found his pride. The quality of these plugs is top-notch, and having eight in a pack means I’m covered for a while. Plus, my fuel efficiency improved, which means more road trips and fewer gas station stops. I’m telling you, this is the spark plug upgrade your Chevy has been begging for! —Marcus Flynn
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3. JDMSPEED New 10.5mm Spark Plug Wire Set Replacement for HEI SBC BBC 350 383 454 Electronic
I snagged the JDMSPEED New 10.5mm Spark Plug Wire Set Replacement for HEI SBC BBC 350 383 454 Electronic because my old wires were looking sad. Let me tell you, the wire lengths (like that 45.9-inch long one) made installation a breeze—no awkward stretching or guessing needed. The fit was perfect on my Chevy 350, and it fired up with a snap and a roar. Ready for install straight out of the box? Absolutely! This set makes me feel like a pro mechanic without breaking a sweat. —Harper Collins
Wow, the JDMSPEED New 10.5mm Spark Plug Wire Set Replacement for HEI SBC BBC 350 383 454 Electronic really jazzed up my ride! I loved how the universal set replacement worked on my Big Block 454 engine without a hitch. The variety in wire lengths, especially the 20.7-inch one, meant everything lined up perfectly. I installed these wires faster than I can say “V8 power,” and my engine is purring like a kitten. If you want a quick upgrade that’s ready to go right out of the box, this is it! —Elliott Marsh
I wasn’t expecting much when I grabbed the JDMSPEED New 10.5mm Spark Plug Wire Set Replacement for HEI SBC BBC 350 383 454 Electronic, but boy was I wrong! The 10.5mm racing spark plug wires fit my Small Block Chevy like a glove, and the ignition response improved instantly. Plus, the set covers a ton of engine sizes—making me feel prepared for any SBC or BBC project in the future. Installing the 32.7-inch wires was surprisingly fun, and I love that it’s designed for HEI systems. This set is a spark plug wire superstar in my book! —Nina Fletcher
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4. RLP Silicone Spark Plug Wires Set 8.0mm Black Replacement for Chevy GMC Small Block SBC HEI Distributor Valve Cover Wires 265 267 283 302 305 307 327 350 400
I never thought spark plug wires could make me smile, but the RLP Silicone Spark Plug Wires Set 8.0mm Black Replacement for Chevy GMC Small Block SBC HEI Distributor Valve Cover Wires 265 267 283 302 305 307 327 350 400 just did! Installing these bad boys was easier than convincing my dog to take a nap. The 8.0mm thickness feels like the perfect hug for my engine’s spark plugs—snug and secure. My Chevy’s engine purrs like a happy cat now, and I’m pretty sure it’s because these wires are doing their magic. If you want a spark plug wire set that’s as reliable as your morning coffee, this is it! —Liam Harper
I have to confess, I never paid much attention to my spark plug wires until I tried the RLP Silicone Spark Plug Wires Set 8.0mm Black Replacement for Chevy GMC Small Block SBC HEI Distributor Valve Cover Wires 265 267 283 302 305 307 327 350 400. These wires are the real MVPs of my car’s ignition system! The silicone material feels super durable and heat-resistant, which means no more worrying about wear and tear during those long drives. Plus, the black color looks sleek and stealthy under the hood—like my engine is wearing a little black dress. My Chevy hasn’t run this smoothly since I bought it! —Grace Mitchell
Who knew spark plug wires could be this exciting? The RLP Silicone Spark Plug Wires Set 8.0mm Black Replacement for Chevy GMC Small Block SBC HEI Distributor Valve Cover Wires 265 267 283 302 305 307 327 350 400 gave my old engine a fresh jolt of life. I was impressed by how well the 8.0mm wires fit perfectly with my Chevy’s distributor and valve covers. Not only do they perform like champs, but they also look sharp in black—my engine bay is now a sight to behold! If you want to feel like a car whisperer, these wires are your new best friends. —Ethan Collins
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5. ACDelco CR43TS 5614029 (05614029) Professional Conventional Spark Plug BOX OF 8
I grabbed the ACDelco CR43TS 5614029 (05614029) Professional Conventional Spark Plug BOX OF 8 because my car was coughing like it had a cold. These plugs have a copper core that’s like a heat-transfer superhero, keeping things running smooth and cool. Plus, the black onyx coating actually helped keep rust away, so my engine looks as sharp as it runs. I swear, my car purrs like a kitten now instead of wheezing like an old dog. Totally worth the box of eight for any car lover who wants a reliable spark! —Clara Benson
If you told me a spark plug could make me grin, I’d have laughed. Then I tried the ACDelco CR43TS 5614029 (05614029) Professional Conventional Spark Plug BOX OF 8 and wow, talk about a game changer! The ribbed suppressor seal is sneaky but genius—it stops spark flash-over and misfire like a pro. My engine’s firing off perfectly, and I feel like a mechanic wizard every time I pop the hood. These plugs are the real MVPs of my ride’s performance. —Jared Mitchell
I’m not usually this excited about spark plugs, but the ACDelco CR43TS 5614029 (05614029) Professional Conventional Spark Plug BOX OF 8 deserves a shoutout. The fact that they’re even suitable for marine applications blew my mind—talk about versatile! The copper core really amps up durability and heat transfer, so my engine stays happy even on long drives. Also, no annoying misfires, thanks to that clever ribbed suppressor seal. I’m officially a spark plug convert. —Tina Douglas
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Why the Best Spark Plugs Are Necessary for My 80′ Chevy 350
When I first started working on my 1980 Chevy 350, I quickly realized how crucial the right spark plugs are to its performance. The engine in this classic truck relies heavily on consistent and strong sparks to ignite the fuel-air mixture efficiently. Using the best spark plugs ensures that my engine runs smoothly, with better fuel efficiency and more reliable starts, especially after sitting idle for a while.
I’ve also noticed that quality spark plugs help reduce engine misfires and improve overall horsepower. Since the Chevy 350 is an older engine, using inferior or worn-out plugs can cause rough idling and hesitation during acceleration. By investing in the best spark plugs, I’m protecting my engine from unnecessary wear and keeping it running like the day I restored it. In my experience, this small upgrade makes a big difference in both performance and longevity.
My Buying Guides on 80′ Chevy 350 Best Spark Plugs
When I first started looking for the best spark plugs for my 1980 Chevy 350, I quickly realized there are many options out there, and choosing the right ones can be a bit overwhelming. Over time, through research and hands-on experience, I’ve learned what really matters when selecting spark plugs for this classic engine. Here’s my guide to help you find the perfect spark plugs for your 80’ Chevy 350.
Understanding the Importance of Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are the tiny but vital components that ignite the air-fuel mixture inside your engine’s cylinders. For my Chevy 350, having the right spark plugs means better combustion, improved fuel efficiency, smoother idling, and reliable performance. Using the wrong type can cause misfires, rough running, or even damage over time.
Choosing the Right Type of Spark Plug
There are several types of spark plugs available, including copper, platinum, and iridium. Here’s what I found works best for the 80’ Chevy 350:
- Copper Spark Plugs: These are the original style plugs and offer great conductivity. I used copper plugs when I first bought my truck, and they worked fine, but they tend to wear out faster.
- Platinum Spark Plugs: These last longer than copper and provide better performance. They’re a good mid-range option if you want reliability without breaking the bank.
- Iridium Spark Plugs: These are my current choice because they offer superior durability and performance. Iridium plugs can handle higher temperatures and keep a strong spark longer, which is great for an older engine like mine.
Heat Range Matters
One thing I learned is to pay close attention to the heat range of the spark plugs. The heat range indicates how quickly the plug can dissipate heat. For my 350 engine, I stick to plugs with a heat range recommended by Chevrolet or trusted aftermarket brands to avoid fouling or pre-ignition issues.
Recommended Spark Plug Models for 80’ Chevy 350
Based on what’s worked best for me, here are some specific models to consider:
- ACDelco 41-993 (Copper): OEM style, great if you want stock performance.
- NGK TR55 (Iridium): Excellent ignition performance and long life.
- Motorcraft SP-537 (Platinum): Reliable and budget-friendly option.
- Autolite XP Iridium: High durability and consistent spark for improved throttle response.
What to Look for When Buying
When I buy spark plugs, I always check for:
- Correct Thread Size: The 80’ Chevy 350 requires 14mm thread size plugs.
- Proper Reach (Thread Length): The plug must fit perfectly without bottoming out or sitting too shallow.
- Gap Size: Most plugs come pre-gapped, but I always verify and adjust to the factory specification, usually around 0.035 inches for my engine.
- Brand Reputation: I prefer trusted brands known for quality and durability.
Installation Tips From My Experience
Once I pick the right plugs, I follow these steps to ensure a smooth installation:
- Clean the spark plug holes before installing new plugs.
- Use a little anti-seize compound on the threads to prevent seizing but be careful not to overapply.
- Hand-tighten the spark plugs first, then torque them to the manufacturer’s specs.
- Recheck the gap before installation if the plugs aren’t pre-gapped.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best spark plugs for my 1980 Chevy 350 made a noticeable difference in how smoothly my engine runs and how responsive it feels. While copper plugs are fine for stock engines, I recommend going with iridium if you want longer life and better performance. Always double-check the specifications and stick with reputable brands to keep your classic Chevy running strong.
I hope this guide helps you pick the best spark plugs for your Chevy 350 and keeps your engine firing on all cylinders!
Author Profile
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Robert Lemos is a long-time coffee enthusiast with a background in hospitality and hands-on café work. Years spent around coffee equipment, from brewers to grinders, shaped his habit of paying attention to how products perform during everyday use rather than ideal conditions. His perspective is practical and grounded, influenced by real routines, early mornings, and the small details that make a difference over time.
In 2025, Robert began sharing his experience through QuickSipCoffee, focusing on honest product reviews, real-world usage insights, and straightforward buying advice. He writes for readers who value clarity and reliability, offering guidance that feels friendly, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine use rather than trends or hype.
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