Anti seize on Sparkplugs?

I did some research but I’m still a little confused. I’m about to change out the plugs on my 2019 V6 Tacoma. I am using

$28 Denso 3491 FK20HBR8 Spark Plug

Denso 3491 plugs. Should I put anti-seize on the plugs? And if I do should I torque them to 13 FTLB?

 

I would not recommend putting anti seize on them but if you do choose to do so you must reduce the torque spec by about 25% or you risk stripping threads. I haven't done the plugs yet in my Tacoma but own several motorcycles and have seen threads pulled out of a cylinder head in this fashion. Use at your own risk.

 

Manual doesn’t call for it. Denso plugs have a nickel coating on threads that doesn’t need anti seize. NGK also has the coating, should you use them.

Torque spec is 13 lbs ft

 

I never have.

 

Yeah, I know most plugs are "coated" by the factory but I've always done a VERY SLIGHT practically undetectable wipe of engine oil on the plug threads on all my engines. Then again, all but four have been cast iron heads. Never have had a problem with either type of head. And with aluminum heads follow the torque recommendation, cold engine.

 

NO…..

 

I always do. Every vehicle. And currently I have 12 running vehicles in my care and many have come and gone. But ive had to pull out several seized plugs through the years, and would rather take the extra minute to put a bit on the threads. I have never had an issue because of having it on there.

Have you? Did you foul a plug by putting anti seize on it? How much did you use?

Im also of the mind if you have to use a torque wrench for spark plugs, you ought to have supervision anyways for the whole process.

 

The plugs on my 80 series, 200 series, and 5th generation 4Runner came out without a fight. I did not apply anti seize on the new ones. Your experience may vary.

 

It is not need.

I have used it, and didn't torque them.
I've never yet used a torque wrench on spark plug.
Just went by feel. Once they feel tight, I call it good

I did buy a torque wrench capable of going down that low.
So I might try it out one day. (maybe)

 

You can just use a impact to take them out the next time so you dont need anti seize

 

I have a special one for tightening the air chambers on my bicycle forks, that’s literally the only time I ever use it for other things.

 

Just a dab if the olds plugs come out rough.

The issues come from people using too much. I’ve never had an issue professionally

 

Yep. A little bit goes a long ways.
If you get it on your face and in your hair, you use the "perfect" amount.

 

I didn't use anti-seize last spark plug change and they were very difficult to remove. Used it with the most recent plug change.
I've changed thousands of spark plugs in my life and never used a torque wrench, but I do with this Tacoma. Aluminum engine, torque wrenches are cheap, why not? You don't need a torque wrench until you install your first helicoil.
Might as well do the job right.

 

Thanks for the great feedback. In the past I’ve always used a dab on each plug. Never had an issue. I was just curious what everyone was going. Thanks!

 

I've never used a torque wrench on plugs either. But for aluminum heads, guys out there that had their spinach that day might over tighten so I suggested it. Easy to wreck aluminum.

And for the most part, I can see where @Tacoma Mike is going with his reply based on his copious experience. Better none than too much. Kinda like using a torque wrench or not, many guys will talk themselves into "just a lttleeee moreeee". Some might question the very negligible amount of oil I smear on to actually doing anything but I've never had a problem in 48 years of changing plugs after the first time on every engine I've done. Heck, I've questioned it myself but it's worked for me.

 

Yea anti-seize helped pay for my house with all the head work I did over the years.
I also use oil on the threads.
I also never use a torque wrench on plugs.
I have seen the crush washer not crush and then it’s loose and then there are major issues.
They are going to do whatever they want to anyway.

 

Pretty clear:

https://www.denso-am.eu/news/20180315_f2_spark-plug-frequently-asked-questions


Should I apply grease to the spark plug thread?

If a thread lubricant such as grease is coated on the thread, tightening of the spark plug increases when applying the same torque; this can cause damage to the spark plug. Subsequently, vibrations may cause the plug to come loose. Because of this, DENSO recommends not using a thread lubricant.

Only in a few exceptional cases (such as with some LPG-powered forklifts) may a small amount of grease be required. In such cases, the spark plug will be supplied pre-lubricated.

 

Torque should always be assumed dry unless a lubricant is specified. Then the torque would be lower for the same.

To use or not, that's one of those Friday discussions.