Wow, as the OP, I can't believe how this thread has got out of control. Dang it summerwind, mpascual simply stated is opinion as clearly stated in the first sentence of post #18 and you want some kind of research paper or something to support his claims. Come on man, give the guy a break. I though post #18 was very well prepared and quite clear .... especially considering there may be a language barrier in there too.

If a user states that he has noticed a performance difference between plugs, there may be some merit for others to try that plug. If results are good, bad or somewhere in undetermined range .... so what, you should only be out the cost of a plug and your personal knowledge level will be increased. As a modeler for over 45 years, I've grown use to using the info I'm given with a grain of salt. Sometimes peoples suggestions are worth exactly what they cost me which is exactly nothing .... other times info can we a real wealth of knowledge and I reap the rewards. Thats all part of the modeling experience.

As far as a plug being the cause for a crash ... sure it can happen but it shouldn't. Again as a experienced modeler, I test anything engine related at higher altitudes until I have a high confidence level with that engine. Deadsticks are rare but they shouldn't be a major problem for anyone that has the experience level to be flying our larger planes. If experience level is lacking .... maybe the user needs to go back to a trainer or simpler planes for awhile longer.