my imagination? changing sparkplugs on a warm motor.

i think this might be my 3rd spark plug change. i dont think it is difficult at all, and i have the proper tools. this is however the first time i did it on a warm motor. i let i cool enough so i could touch it somewhat, and changed the plugs.

coming out, the plugs feel weird. like there is "galling" at the threads. they never did spin off freely. strange. the new ones spun in fairly easy and none of my old plugs had funky threads. all sharp and clean. i used alum anti seize last time and this time as well. i hate that butt-pucker moment until the plug comes out and i can lay eyes on it. i hand thread the new ones in always until i get enough resistance to require a wrench.

is the difference the hot motor?

 

The metals expand when warm and put more pressure on the threads. Which is why you could feel resistance when removing the plugs.

 

thanks

so far so good. i'm less confident in my torque since it was so gummy going in.

 

It may be an old wives tale but as far back as the early 80s we were taught to never change plugs on aluminum heads when they are hot because the heat weakens the threads. Wait until its cold.

 

A little tip next change, after you have the coil packs off, put a shot of kroil or liquid wrench in each hole. As you start loosening the plug, the penetrant creeps in and the plug comes out smoother.