Best using torque wrench to fit spark plugs?
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Best using torque wrench to fit spark plugs?
Is it always best/recommended to use a torque wrench to tighten spark plugs correctly or do most people not bother?
Cheers
Richard.
Cheers
Richard.
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Thanks guys.
I'm pretty new to the diy work on the car front, and don't really have much past reference for how tight things should be or feel - so probably best getting a torque wrench.
This one looks decent enough: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B...f=ord_cart_shr
I'm pretty new to the diy work on the car front, and don't really have much past reference for how tight things should be or feel - so probably best getting a torque wrench.
This one looks decent enough: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B...f=ord_cart_shr
Last edited by Scotsman; 25 January 2011 at 09:02 AM.
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If you are not used to working out how much force to apply, then its always good to use a torque wrench to get an idea of how much effort equates to how much torque. Bearing in mind the length of the wrench dictates the amount of leverage (the longer the wrench, the less effort you need to get the same torque).
I do it by feel which is hand tight (or if its a new spark plug; tightent until resistance is felt, where the crush washer is flattened) then upto 1/8 of an extra turn.
These are alloy cylinder heads, so threads strip easily and plugs don't need to be super tight, so basically its hand tight and nip them up a touch. If unsure, tighten with your hand torwards the base of the wrench to reduce the leverage.
Notes with torque wreches: When not in use, wind back the spring to zero lb/ft. To stop the internal spring from stretching which will keep it accurate. Large torque wrenches are not very accurate for low torque settings, as found on sparK plugs (some don't even adjust that low). Get one with easy to read/understand scales, as some can be confusing (My uncle's mini Blue-point wrench reads in 7ths ).
I do it by feel which is hand tight (or if its a new spark plug; tightent until resistance is felt, where the crush washer is flattened) then upto 1/8 of an extra turn.
These are alloy cylinder heads, so threads strip easily and plugs don't need to be super tight, so basically its hand tight and nip them up a touch. If unsure, tighten with your hand torwards the base of the wrench to reduce the leverage.
Notes with torque wreches: When not in use, wind back the spring to zero lb/ft. To stop the internal spring from stretching which will keep it accurate. Large torque wrenches are not very accurate for low torque settings, as found on sparK plugs (some don't even adjust that low). Get one with easy to read/understand scales, as some can be confusing (My uncle's mini Blue-point wrench reads in 7ths ).
Last edited by ALi-B; 25 January 2011 at 09:22 AM.
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