Tighten spark plugs?

since i dont have a torque wrench how do i go about tightening the spark plugs?


tighten by hand without the ratchet than 1/2 or 1 full turn after with the ratchet on? let me know asap thanks

 

I don't think I've ever used a torque wrench on my spark plugs. Just tighten them till snug. There's a crush washer that you're trying to crush when you tighten them.

What's the torque rating?

 

super light like 15lbs man how you tighten yours?

 

tighten until the washer crushes, no further. That or buy a torque wrench. The light duty lever style (non ratcheting) are pretty cheap. If you're working on your truck it's a tool you should have.

 

how will you know since you cant see anything?

 

You have to have a calibrated hand.

It sounds like you need to go out and buy a torque wrench. Set it to 15ft lbs and go for it. After you've done it several times you'll figure out how tight you need them without it.

Don't forget the anti seize.

 

lol

 

Isn't it like 1/16 turn after contact for no washer plugs, and 1/8 turn for washered plugs? Verify the amount before you do, not sure if memory is correct.

 

k

 

X2 on hand tightening them. You'll feel the the crush washer collapsed to let you know its sealed and tight.

Torquing spark plugs is too much of a risk imo. Its very easy to over tighten especially when your working at an angle. I've changed a lot of spark plus in my short time (motorcycle/jet ski tech for years)

 

soo about 1/16 turn after finger tight?

 

06 with 100k

 

For those using a torque wrench - good . But , make sure to set it back to the lowest setting for storage - or it can wreck the calibration over time .
Sarge

 

some plugs don't need it.

 

I've never used anti-seize and never once have I ran into an issue. My race cars, motorcycles, go-peds, trucks, have always been ok without it. I just alway make sure the block is cold when I do the work.

 

Our plugs are gasket/crush washer style. Don't know what mm, but 1/16 turn is probably not enough. 20 years ago on aluminum heads we always did finger tight + 1/2 turn.

 

half turn after finger tight just with the extension and spark plug socket?

 

I had a bit of shell shock when I found out the 30K service on my old Ram 1500 Hemi *required* the plugs changed...and there were two per cylinder...and they were only available at the dealer.

 

Should be ok, you should be able to feel when the crush washer is fully compressed - if it needs more effort STOP. Figure 1/2 turn max.

 

Go buy yourself a torque wrench and some anti-seize.

You'll be glad you did. It'll be something you'll have & use for a long time.