Loose Spark Plugs

Hello. Every time I change my spark plugs it always strikes me how loose they are. I'm certain to snug them up tight when I install them. I don't use Never-Seeze, should I be using a thread sealer or some other treatment?

 

No. The plugs should be snug so the combustion gases don't come past the crush washer on the plug

 

you should torque them (with a torque wrench) to the factory setting. most aluminum heads need about 180 in/lbs or 15 ft/lbs of torque.

 

Thanks, I'll check them. I actually have an in/lbs torque wrench.

 

you really need to be putting anti-sieze on the plug threads

 

double check. ford says roughly 8ft/lbs.



see toyota fsm on ttora

 

For what application? On SOHC 4.6L's the spec is approximately 13 ft/lbs. On my girlfriend's V6 Accord, the spec is 13 ft/lbs. On my Kawasaki ZX-6R, guess what? 13 ft/lbs.

In general, on aluminum heads, 13-15 ft/lbs is a pretty good spot if you dont know the factory spec. Just a small dab of anti-seize on the threads hand tighten them and then torque them down to 13 ft/lbs.

 

2.7 3RZ calls for 14 ft lbs for the spark plugs.

 

okay, I finally got to change the spark plugs. I used a spot of Never Seeze, and an inch/lbs torque wrench. Torqued them all down to 180 in/lbs. I have to say I never tightened them up much before. So that was the problem all along.

 

My 2004 tacomas spark plugs came loose after about 25000 miles for the second time are the threads possibly not right with this year truck?

 

Depends on the plug you're using. NGK says not to use antisieze with their plugs. I believe it is the same with the Denso ones as well.

Anti seize on all plugs is an old mentality and does not apply to all current vehicles.

 

I'm thinking that the fsm recommended 13ft lbs is not enough. The 100 series land cruiser guys who have the same 13ft lbs mentioned in the fsm have documented plugs blowing out and causing other issues from not being tight enough. I think I'm going to do 15ft lbs when I install mine.