What's the consensus on the gold colored caps that are present on our spark plugs

[INTP_ty]

I can't figure this one out...

I see peoples tear downs & most of them have kept the gold little cap piece on the spark plug.

But most of what I'm reading says "oh yeah, make sure not to forget to take it off"


I'm so lost. Is yours on?


https://motoredbikes.com/media/albums/teardown-chinese-ht-49-80cc-engine.808/

Photo #2 of 59. Look! There it is! ...tell me that engine hasn't been running for a while

 

[Tyler6357]

It depends on the spark plug boot on the CDI. Cheap stock CDIs come with a plastic boot that will only work if you remove the spark plug cap. I don't recommend that you use those. Go to a hardware store and get a high quality automotive boot ($6) and replace it, then you can leave the spark plug cap on. Those plastic boots are horrible and can cause problems.

 

[FurryOnTheInside]

My (£2/$3) NGK plastic non-resistor boot needs the "terminal nut" removed.
Apparently the NGK rubber boot needs it left on.
The stock boot is not good.

 

[crassius]

it is called a 'terminal nut' - a good, NGK plastic zero resistance boot will last pretty much forever - the chinese boot fails quickly - rubber boots don't need that nut