Torque to Tighten 1.6L Spark Plugs?

[malone]

Hi all,

I need to replace the spark plugs in my 1996 Corolla 1.6L auto. What's the torque to tighten spark plugs? I am selling my car so I don't need to buy a service manual just for the spark plugs.

Thank you
Mark

[Bitter]

just snug them in and it'll be fine, run them down till they touch and another 1/4ish turn.

[kevmac]

Yeah if you care, google it. It is a constant value wherever you go. I like to torque things because I have all three wrench sizes. But on plugs I just feel it because of the location and the light torque settings that may be thrown with rust

use anti seize or the plug goo that is at the store. Install ngk or denso pre gapped. Do unto others...

[awildman]

I think it's 12-15 foot-lbs of torque. I use the NGK pregapped standard plugs myself. Otherwise, I think .032 is the gap.

Make sure you use antiseize. A little bit goes a long way....

[trife96]

agreed, antisieze is a good idea, use common sense when screwing them in. I usually start the off with a long extension and by hand so I don't cross thread. Also, keep in mind it's aluminum so we don't won't them to tight. But definitely snug...book calls for 13lb

[speedy25]

Originally Posted by Bitter

just snug them in and it'll be fine, run them down till they touch and another 1/4ish turn.

BINGO! We have a winner. Read the manufacturers instructions and you'll find that same info.

Also using nev-r-seize is important when you put ANY steel fastener in aluminum. Spring for the big can. Its well worth it.

-SP

[malone]

You guys rock.

My torque wrench can't go lower than 25ft-lb so I'll go with the 1/4 turn suggestion. Will grab a can of anti-seize too.

Thanks!

[malone]

Just as I was going to install the spark plugs, I realized that I forgot to ask about gapping. I checked the owner's manual and the underside the hood, there's information about EGR, vacuum diagram, etc. but nothing about spark plugs.

Is 0.032 the correct gap for this 1.6L?

Thanks,
Mark

[Corpsey]

If you get platinum plugs you don't need anti-sieze. Acccording to Haynes manual plugs are 156 inch-pounds. 97 and earlier is .031 inch gap. 98 and later is .043 inch gap

[awildman]

corpsey, do you mean that you don't need to gap the plugs if they're the platinum variety? I don't see that antiseize should change from one plug style to the next. The cylinder/head/spark plug will still be subjected to the same amount of heat.

[Corpsey]

7th gen gap is .031 inch. You don't need anti-sieze on platinum plugs cause they will not corrode like cheap ones or get stuck in the block.

[Bitter]

yes they will seize in, use anti seize.

[Corpsey]

Every certified mechanic I have ever asked has told me that you don't need anti-sieze if you run platinum plugs. You could still use it but it's not necessary.

[Bitter]

you've never had a 5.4 triton to work on, have you?

[speedy25]

Originally Posted by Corpsey

Every certified mechanic I have ever asked has told me that you don't need anti-sieze if you run platinum plugs. You could still use it but it's not necessary.

I'm amused. Of course I have had to fix screw ups done by some of those certified mechanics, so I dont do things like them.

You are right, its not necessary, but if you have to replace the plugs again, it makes it sooooo much easier. I'm guessing you have never had a bolt or plug stuck in an aluminum part. I dont like getting out the torch to free oxidized fasteners.

And a comment on the gap- Many of the higher grade plugs have warnings to NOT gap them. The fine electrodes can be damaged by not-so-careful people. HOWEVER, you should check the gap to make sure it hasnt been damaged from careless handling. Your engine will run best when all gaps are the same.

-Pete