TRUEBLUE3934

This comment from Nick aligns with what I had understood (or thought I did anyway) about the plug/head issue. After consulting with a couple of engineer friends of mine, we concluded that around 14-15lb/ft should be acceptable and not exert an excessive force on the threads. It is not difficult to apply 25lb/ft of torque to a rachet handle, so be careful if you are not using a torque wrench.

Derf00

The only plugs you can get away with not using a tq wrench are the old school style with the crush washer and only if it was a fresh uncrushed washer when you put it on. The tapered plugs are difficult to guage without a tq wrench.

trailor

while i agree with the concept that a torque wrench should always be used for plugs, my method has seemed to work fine on my 4.6L f150 for 50k+ miles (changed again recently, however, in an effort to troubleshoot other concerns/problems), and thus far in the mustang for ~7k miles. once again, i am not arguing your point, just sayin it can work out for you the caveman way, although obviously not the recommended method

ZeroTX

Thread resurrection!

Did they actually add more threads from '04+? I'm putting in an '09 2v engine (Crown Vic) and was wondering if I can worry a little less. Obviously not all mechanics observe the torque settings, either.

cliffyk

There is no solid information I have seen indicating that Ford "fixed" anything , nor should they have as it is a maintenance issue--if you always properly torque the plugs (11 to 15 lb-ft) there will be no problem.

I have never heard of a plug-blowout on a GT with a well documented and proper maintenance history--BTW, taking it to a Ford dealer is at best a 50-50 bet; I have watched "mechanics" at two dealerships, and one "performance shop" install plugs on GTs without using a torque wrench...