Should you use anti-seize when installing spark plugs?

Using anti-seize when installing spark plugs was once common practice, but today, you might want to think twice before adding anything to your spark plug threads. Pete explains why today’s plugs generally don’t need any thread prep when installing, unlike old school plug swaps.

[@rainergimenez4022]

So as a mechanic now for over 40 years I will throw my 2 cents into the discussion. I use anti seize in this way. I will put it on the threads but in a film like appearance and then I reduce torque by 25%. Actually in my case I can feel the crush washer starting to flatten by feel because I've only done it a million times but you get the idea. Too many times I've seen the plug eat head threads up when you try to remove them. The other tip is to Kroil them before attempting to remove them and it works even better when the engine is hot. Kroil is a brand name but PB Blaster is another good product..

[@dadgarage7966]

Use anti-seize. It's fine. Tightening torque on spark plugs is so low that a dab of the stuff is negligible. A seized spark plug is a costly nightmare.

[@user-hs8qj2fi9y]

The so called new style plugs still seize in the alloy heads today. Use anti seize. Done thousands.

[@Sir_Loin_of_Steak]

I will continue to use antiseize. Torque wrench not needed if you know what you are doing. In fact, most torque wrenches are not calibrated properly.

[@tioasn]

I am happy to say that this is one piece if advice I WILL NEVER FOLLOW! I will always use anti seize on everything except the head bolts.

[@tioasn]

@@bigboreracing356: Every 100,000 miles or as needed.

[@tioasn]

@@bigboreracing356: I worked for a limousine comp. as a mechanic. We got 5 to 600,000 miles on each vehicle. I know what works.

[@VB-bk1lh]

This is not true, I just fought for two hours trying to free a stuck plug in an aluminum head on a 2010 Ford and I had one last week that someone broke off in a 2017 Honda head. The Ford had Motorcraft plugs, the Honda had NGK. Neither were 'rusty, just fused to the aluminum head due to dissimilar metal bonding or corrosion.

[@jimhmod]

My hands are old enough to feel when plugs need some help and when and where to put anti seize

[@mlieser1230]

I've dealt with aluminum cylinder heads my whole career. I've used anti-seize and torqued plugs to spec. I've never had a misfire or a stuck plug. I think the problem is that people overcoat the threads and get it on the electrode. When opening a new bottle of anti-seize cut that stupid built in brush off the cap. Use an acid brush for most applications. An artists brush works great for applying a sparing coat of anti-seize to the spark plugs.

[@fluorescentmug8333]

The label on the permatex copper said to torque to spec

[@andrewsparks4112]

But doesn't it also say to keep away from aluminum?

[@fluorescentmug8333]

@@andrewsparks4112
www.permatex.com/wp-content/uploads/tds/09128.pdf

[@fluorescentmug8333]

@@andrewsparks4112 no it doesn't

[@craigpierce7996]

I have used anti-seize sparingly for 60 years, stock and race engines. As most things mechanical, you need to have your wits about you and a good feel for the crush washer. On taper fit, you tighten until it hits the seat, then no more than a 1/16th turn. If it goes more than that, take the plug back out and clean the spark plug seating surface in the head. Most of the problems happen on taper seat. Many lack the patience to clean the seat when required. Never apply anti-seize any closer that 1-1/2 threads from the end of the threads. It will foul the plug if you get it in the combustion chamber.

[@benmartin6476]

I use anti-seize on all spark plugs and torque to the minimum spec
No matter the changes they will still seize
Ask any ford 5.4 owner or mechanic

[@IconHVACService]

I will call you up to remove my seized spark plugs. I disagree.

[@timberslasher4899]

Hell no they don't go together. I had an old 366 in a truck that this guy drowned the plugs with anti seize. It fouled 7 plugs in no time.

[@harveyblough7204]

Lol this guy only dose plug for shows if you do this just even new ones use this if you work in the Rust belt you know

[@williamquire2115]

I think I will keep using my anti seize and let me see you get a torque wrench on the passenger side of a 94 Z28

[@1ryankasner]

I may not be a smart man…. but I still use anti-seize and torque by feel (not quite German spec) . The video has not swayed me.

[@jeffgriffith7003]

What a load of rubbish, I’ve dealt with many modern plugs, seized in the heads.
Probably because I live in the rustbelt, use anti-seize…