What is a negative effect of having a spark plug gap that is too large?

A spark plug gap that is too large creates a situation where the ignition system has to exert more effort to provide the necessary voltage to jump the gap. This increased demand can lead to excessive strain on the ignition coil. The ignition coil is designed to generate high voltage to create a spark; when the gap exceeds optimal specifications, it must work harder, potentially causing overheating or premature failure of the coil, which may lead to misfires, poor engine performance, or even engine damage over time.

The other choices present outcomes that are either beneficial or neutral in relation to spark plug gap. For instance, enhancing ignition would actually be a positive effect, while reducing emissions and stabilizing engine temperature do not directly relate to an overly large gap. Thus, understanding the role of the spark plug gap in terms of ignition system performance and reliability highlights why strain on the ignition coil is a significant concern.