Really dumb question... - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

cmitchell5254 · 09-23-2008, 08:38 PM

Is there any kind of lubricant or sealant or anything that I should apply to new spark plugs before installation?

Venom_5 · 09-23-2008, 08:41 PM

nope, just make sure you follow the torque specs either in your service/repair manual or on the box

uibalnme · 09-23-2008, 09:36 PM

+1 on the torque specs, but there are lubricants for spark plugs. While they are not specific to spark plugs, they are sold in small packets containing just enough for use on spark plugs. You can use anti-seize compound on the threads so the plugs are easier to remove when you change them. Then use dilectric grease where the plug wire boot attaches to the plug so the rubber boot dosesn't stick to the plug. The grease also helps keep out moisture.

Both the anti-seize, and grease can be found at the parts counter in any auto parts store. They usually sell for $0.99 each packet.

I've been using anti-seize, and dilectric grease on my spark plugs for 10 years, and I've never had a problem.

importcar · 09-23-2008, 11:02 PM

How much anti seize do you apply?

uibalnme · 09-23-2008, 11:21 PM

Just a thin coat. Enough to cover all the threads.

Venom_5 · 09-23-2008, 11:40 PM

those packets are only sold to make people like you waste money ... i see its working

people have NOT being using these packets for more than 10 years with no problems as well

uibalnme · 09-24-2008, 12:37 AM

Well, whatever you say "O Great, and all Knowing Venom"...

Don't insult my intelligence by implying I'm a rube that falls for simple tricks that take my money. I've had a problem with stuck plugs, and torn plug boots getting stuck in the plug tubes before. I learned of the stuff from a family friend, who has been a professional mechanic for nearly 40 years. So, I speak from personal experience. It's just cheap insurance against possible future headaches. The anti-seize aids instalation, AND removal of the plugs. The dilectric grease not only helps keep moisture out, it also helps the plugs slip out of the spark plug socket after being properly torqued.

Besides what's $2 and change every 12-15,000 miles when the plugs are due for inspection or replacement? I'm not soooo broke that I can't spare 2 bucks on the anti-seize and dilectric grease every time I check the plugs.

Hell, I still have some of each packet left over from the last time I checked the plugs in Jan. Each packet has enough to do a set of 8 plugs. Since I have a 4cyl., well do the math. $2 for both packets once a year. How much does the average person spend at starbucks a week?

Anyway, they don't have to use anti-seize or dilectric grease if they don't want to. Your statment saying that there isn't anything that can be used was incorrect. I'm just presenting the fact that there are things that can be used on the plugs.

Withholding facts, and information is inconducive to the education of the uninitiated.

proftomda · 09-24-2008, 07:13 AM

ASE mechanic and FAA licensed aircraft mechanic here. As mentioned, they do make "anti sieze compound" for the threads and dielectric grease for the plug wire boots. Contrary to Venom's remarks, use of these products is the right way to service the plugs and reccomended. You can buy these products at any parts store and sold in small packets or larger sizes. A little goes a long way.

groovemasterodi · 09-24-2008, 09:34 AM

glad to see Atlanta represented here

EEngineer · 09-24-2008, 10:35 AM

venom got pwned

TheKevin · 09-24-2008, 10:41 AM

i agree, anti-seize is very handy and works very well. recommended but not needed

2000camryle · 09-24-2008, 11:02 AM

put on the anti seize or you will be wishin you did in the future, when we were taking off a part when replacing a seal anti seize was not applied the last time it had been put on and my dad had to go rent a pully that could mechanically take it off because it was not coming off any other way, it prevents rust from forming and just a little bit of dust makes it very difficult to get parts off. btw it was not cheap to rent that pully so why not just spend the extra dollar and then take liek a minute or less to apply it. that is the only experience I have had with it so I may not be entirely correct but that is what I have had to deal with.