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How do I not cross thread spark plugs?
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Volunteer871
Novice
Mar 13, 2016, 11:24 AM
Post #1 of 8
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How do I not cross thread spark plugs?
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I am changing my own spark plugs for the first time. I have a spark plug wrench, dielectric grease, anti-seize compound etc.
I have a Haynes manual for my 2002 Toyota Corolla. The book was written before Irridium plugs were used. Should I tighten the spark plugs to the same torque specifications as regular plugs? The book says 158 inch pounds. How do I know I have tightened them to the right amount?
How
do I avoid cross threading the spark plugs? What happens if you cross
thread the spark plugs (assuming the car seems to be running fine)?
Would I need a new engine or expensive repair when it is time to replace
the spark plugs again?
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Mar 13, 2016, 1:30 PM
Post #2 of 8
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Re: How do I not cross thread spark plugs?
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It's pretty hard to cross thread a plug when installed by hand. Just be sure to use a spark plug socket that is designed for installing spark plugs and has a rubber insert to keep the plug straight and be sure not to drop any of the plugs as they or made of glass and will crack easily.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Mar 13, 2016, 1:59 PM
Post #3 of 8
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Re: How do I not cross thread spark plugs?
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? How tight without a tool? Snug but don't overdo it. Go easy with the Aluminum Anit-Sieze product to put only a tiny bit on thread only + not too much. If too much or all over plug it can conduct electricity and plug won't fire properly if extreme or maybe just little. Rather see you use silicone grease (is dialectic grease) for plugs if unsure of yourself.
How not to strip threads: If worried use a rubber hose on new plug and really know it's turned in by that at least one full turn. Real spark plug sockets again as Hammer Time mentioned have rubber to hold the plug and you should also be able to just use an extension on that socket without wrench yet and feel it's right. Easy job on some but totally worth not messing up,
T
(This post was edited by Tom Greenleaf on Mar 13, 2016, 2:01 PM)
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Discretesignals
Ultimate Carjunky
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Mar 13, 2016, 2:21 PM
Post #4 of 8
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Re: How do I not cross thread spark plugs?
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If your new plugs have nickel plated threads, you don't need anti-sneeze.
Since we volunteer our time and knowledge, we ask for you to please follow up when a problem is resolved.
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Volunteer871
Novice
Mar 17, 2016, 6:42 PM
Post #5 of 8
(3247 views)
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Re: How do I not cross thread spark plugs?
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I have NGK plugs. Should I use dielectric grease but not anti-seize compound? They are BKR5EIX-11 stock #5464. Are these nickel plated?
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Volunteer871
Novice
Mar 17, 2016, 6:43 PM
Post #6 of 8
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Re: How do I not cross thread spark plugs?
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Does the dielectric grease go into the threads of the spark plugs? It is an either/or thing with anti-seize compound?
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Mar 18, 2016, 2:06 AM
Post #7 of 8
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Re: How do I not cross thread spark plugs?
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If they came with grease or if you wish it goes in spark plug wire boot not on the plug at all. It's optional for just the threads of a plug + those with "taper" seats not a metal ring gasket you DO NOT overtighten or risk having it so stuck it will not come out without a real fight.
Simple as a spark plug replacement job seems you can really destroy things. If in doubt don't. Get your first time supervised by a professional.
You must have the right socket or more than one for assorted ones and know your force of both removal in installation is a straight line of torque not at an angle or risk breaking the plug.
Sorry for the book but you are asking at all suggests you aren't aware of the risks. Spark plugs are the only thing the entire ignition system has to fire that cylinder no matter what the controls or designs are before it. If you drop one mark that so if it doesn't run exactly right, right away go there first.
Actually don't drop plugs or buy ones with damaged packaging either.
More: If one or more need adjusting more than the smallest amount with the correct tool don't mess with those they are wrong for some reason or damaged.
Do them one at a time so no chance of mixing anything up as well.
Save old plugs for a while marking which one came from where is useful if a problem,
T
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Discretesignals
Ultimate Carjunky
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Mar 18, 2016, 4:17 AM
Post #8 of 8
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Re: How do I not cross thread spark plugs?
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Those plugs don't require anti seize on their threads.
Since we volunteer our time and knowledge, we ask for you to please follow up when a problem is resolved.
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