Spark Plug Torque spec

[ctrlraven]

During my boring time at work today I am installing new NGK TR6IX plugs. I have seen tq spec from 10-15 ft. lbs. on the here. I set my tq wrench to 11 ft. lbs. and as it started to get snug I went a little more and I didn't hear my tq wrench click or anything to let me know I hit my setting. I just want to make sure their tq'ed to the right ft. lbs. before I put everything back together for a test drive. Any input would help.

Chris

[Local Boy]

You might want to put some anti-seize on the treads to avoid gauling :eek: and getting a more acurate reading (also makes for easier removal). Aluminum (treads) is much softer than plugs (treads). My repair manual is at home, I can give you the exact specs later today if you need. I think it calls for inch/pounds if I'm not mistaken.

[ctrlraven]

Already got the anti-seize and de-electric stuff on the plugs.

[RF Overlord]

The Big Red Book says 11 ft/lbs.

[Breadfan]

I do believe it is ft/lbs, 11in/lbs is very little.

2nd anti-sieze.

12 ft/lbs isn't that much either, so you have to feel the torque wrench, on some espeically bigger ones that click will be very ahrd to discern at low torque values.

An alternative would be a small inch/lb wrench which would probably have a more defined click, should just multiply each ft/lb by 12 to get inch/lb

[ctrlraven]

I do believe it is ft/lbs, 11in/lbs is very little.

2nd anti-sieze.

12 ft/lbs isn't that much either, so you have to feel the torque wrench, on some espeically bigger ones that click will be very ahrd to discern at low torque values.

An alternative would be a small inch/lb wrench which would probably have a more defined click, should just multiply each ft/lb by 12 to get inch/lb

Gotcha, yeah I figure because the value is so small that it wouldn't have a click I just wanted to make sure lol.

Thanks guys!

[RCSignals]

The Big Red Book says 11 ft/lbs.

but is that 'dry' or 'lubricated'? anti seize I believe counts as a thread lubricant for torque

[Local Boy]

OK. Just wanted to make sure. I assume the 10-15 foot/Lbs is the correct specs? Seems a little high for such a small tread. You have to understand, I stripped a plug hole before what a PITA, and now I'm VERY cautious when it comes to this.

[RF Overlord]

I assume the 10-15 foot/Lbs is the correct specs? The factory service manual calls for 11 ft/lbs, dry.

[ctrlraven]

Well their in and I went for a test drive, can see/feel better idle and mid range rpm and feels a little more peppier, tap the gas peddle and it wants to jump. I took them to where they were firmly snug and just a tad past that (1/8 ish of a turn).

[MitchB]

The factory service manual calls for 11 ft/lbs, dry.

If this is true, then I would use no more than 7 lb-ft. Antisieze is a very effective extreme pressure lubricant. You can always recheck the torque later, but pulled threads - well, that's a whole 'nother story!

Seriously, I remember reading an interview with ARP's founder/president 10+ years ago and this was discussed. The torque reduction with antisieze was greater than all other lubricants - which included the spectrum from 30 wt engine oil to moly lube.

Mitch

[Marauderjack]

I have never used a torque wrench on any plugs but in aluminum heads I use Hi-Temp silicone as an "Anti-Seize"....snug them and then about 1/16 turn (no more than 6 ft. lbs.)!!:beer:

Have never had one back out and never stripped any threads.....yet??:confused: Better not speak too soon!!??:rolleyes:

Actually almost immediately there is a slight carbon buildup on the threads exposed inside the combustion chamber...effectively "Locking" the plug from backing out!!:bows: I firmly believe that all of the plug "Blow-Outs" Ford has had were a result of weakened threads from OVER TIGHTENING!!!:argue:

My...:twocents:

Marauderjack :burnout:

[MENINBLK]

I swapped out my plugs today.
I went and bought the Sears Craftsman Microtorque Wrench #44596.
This wrench is the ****nit.
Clicked right at 12 ft/lbs. every time.

3/8 in. square drive Wrench with digital readout.
Our easiest to set and most accurate.
Measures 5 to 80 ft. lb. in 0.5 ft. lb. increments.

Superior internal mechanisms reduce friction and provide accurate and consistent measurements.
Readout gives precise torque settings in both English and metric units.
Accurate to 3 percent on clockwise or right-handed reading greater than or equal to 20 percent of capacity.
Handle designed for easy setting.
Internal mechanisms reduce friction and provide accurate, consistent measurements.

[ctrlraven]

Guess I'll need to swing by Sears and get one of those. How much did it cost you if you don't mind me asking?

[MENINBLK]

Guess I'll need to swing by Sears and get one of those. How much did it cost you if you don't mind me asking?

Regular price is $109.99. It's on sale for $99.99.
You can order it ONLINE and then order the CASE online
for an additinoal discount on the case.

The cases are nice RED Plastic cases molded just for the torque wrench.

If Sears is local to you, you can ask to have the wrench delivered
to the store and bypass paying for the shipping.
The case will be shipped to your home.
They are not stocked in the stores.

[Joe Walsh]

Chris, You are more than welcome to borrow my Sears Micro-Tork wrench.
It reads in IN-LBS.
I bought it specifically for the Marauder's spark plugs and intake manifold bolts.
I also need to deliver those CVPI steelie rims to you.
Can I catch up with you on Sunday?

Joe

[ctrlraven]

I can't be 100% sure I'll be free sometime on Sunday, I'm moving into my new house today and finish up moving what I don't get done today on Sunday. Shoot me a PM of when you will be free on Sunday and I see if I can make some time.

[GreekGod]

Sears Micro-Tork wrench(s) are excellent. They also have a new electronic wrench with 3 LED's to show when approaching selected torque.