Torque Reduction for Anti Seize?

Anybody know of a good rule of thumb here?
I've been avoiding using anti seize due to its impact on applied torque and I'm a little concerned I'm going to kick myself in the future when I can't get anything unbolted.

Do you use anti seize? If so, do you reduce torque values by a specific amount?

 

Generally I mainly use antisieze on stuff that isn't torqued anyway like exhaust fasteners, O2 sensors, and things I know to be problematic with bolts coming out like uncoated bolts threaded deep into aluminum on some water pumps, thermostats, etc.

Granted we don't have rust issues here.


I don't use it or recommend using it on torque/safety critical fasteners like brake and suspension (on the body of the bolt maybe if your worried about it seizing in a bushing but never on the threads) hardware and critical engine fasteners.

 

Honestly I’ve never been a fan. As a tech I’ve always hated when people slather everything in anti seize. I’m also not a huge fan of thread locking compounds or over using sealants/RTVs. Having worked on cars for almost 20 years in California I was pretty spoiled, nothing ever really rusted or got seized up. Now I work on heavy equipment in Idaho and still don’t deal with much rusted or seized up components. I have all the chemicals I just mentioned on my service truck but rarely use them. It might be different in areas like the rust belt or where things oxidize and so on. A quick google search will reveal a chart for common fluids/chemicals and their affect on torque vs PSI. This is also why using degrees to torque fasteners is more accurate than resistance. Anyway, I wouldn’t use the stuff unless you know of a specific problem are area, like the lower control arm bolts that like to get frozen on our trucks. Other than that I generally put things back how ever the factory assembled it.

 

It depends.

If the threads are rough and exposed to elements and already sub optimal. I leave the torque the same. (lug nuts are a good example)

If its an 02 sensor, spark plug, or any random suspension fastener, by hand. Like @Dm93 mentions.

People that coat the bolt till its actually wet torque are the bane of my existence. They are idiots.

 

Ok, good to read all of these responses. I'll stick to the recommended torque specs and leave the anti-seize alone unless a situation specifically requires it. Thanks all!