I have a 2003 GT Convertible with 67000 miles on the clock. I can only assume that I have the original spark plugs still in place as it is bone stock. I bought it about 5 years ago from the original owner. What should the proper spark plug torque should be if I use anti seize. I know without anti seize it should be 11-15 foot pounds. Some say to decrease the torque 25% due to the anti seize. What would you do? Thanks for the help.

 

15% reduction with aluminum or nickel anti-seize, and a REAL thin film...
Specs are 12 ft-lbs.

If you got plugs that have shiny threads, you don't need any anti-seize.

 

My technique, as follows:

Remove when the engine is cold. Gap new plugs to .052", light coating of anti-seize on the threads, tighten to 11-14 lbs (I tighten toward the higher end of that). I have also done them by "feel" in absence of torque wrench, which basically means snug tight and then bump the end of the ratchet handle with the palm of your hand a couple times to finish. Basically apply as much physical effort as it would if you were lifting a 10 lb bag of dog food or whatever.

I've had the plugs in and out on my car several times over the years, never once had a problem.

 

OK. Thanks for the quick replies. The car runs great and not sure if I really should replace them. I would hate to cause an issue from a non-issue. Thanks again.

 

Mine ran fine too, but when I took the plugs out, I saw them. Also, they all smelled
of fuel. Replaced the plugs, with the tune, I am upwards of 28 MPG highway. Was
getting 25 with the old plugs.

 

If the car feels like it runs fine and has acceptable fuel economy then you don't need to pull them out yet, but you can learn about how a car's engine is operating by reading each cylinder's spark plugs:

https://www.championautoparts.com/Pa...ark-plugs.html

 

Old -vs- New from my V6:




Don't know how long they were in there, but the Service History is on CarFax,
and didn't see anything for plugs. Seen plenty oil changes over the span, but
never a plug change notation... So, I changed them out with NGK G-Power plugs.

Was getting some crank time starting prior, now it fires right up.

 

I always observe the gap of the old plugs (in addition to overall condition), just gives you an idea of how worn they are. Have seen more than once on higher mileage engines where the old plugs had gaps of up to .07x" but the engine still seemed to run fine. It's just such a gradual wear that you don't really notice how it's affecting things. Then you install new plugs and find yourself amazed at how responsive it seems, fuel economy goes up +1 or 2, etc.

 

I appreciate all of the quick replies. I will give it a shot next week. Thanks as always.