Greetings all, how much torque should be applied to correctly tighten a spark plug using a torque wrench. My truck just "threw" spark plug #2, luckly there is no damage to the threads and I can replace the plug. I replaced all spark plugs 4months ago with Buch platnimums. Tomorrow I will replace them all with Motrocraft. BTW, my truck is a 97 Ford 150, 5.4 Liter with 210,000 miles. Runs great, never had any problems until this spark plug incident. So, can someone tell me the correct torque for tightening spark plugs? Thanks for your response.

 

If you use anti-size lube on them it screws with the torque number. When I did mine, I just do a gentle snug when them.

 

Thanks for the response Dan, please explain "screws with the torque number", what number? I use a hose to start spark plug, then hand tighten, then the rachet tighten.

 

For MC plugs, they say not to use anti seize because the threads are coated but I would use some if you don't change them all that often.
The torque spec is 7 to 14 lb/ft. I would use about mid value with anti seize.

 

don't even torque it.....just use a ratchet and put them in until the ratchet stops then a little extra. Basically "SNUG" them in...

 

You need to use the correct torque and no anti seize. from memory they are all between 14-17ft-lbs and are supposed to be done with an inch-lb wrench since the values are so low. If you keep them changed every 60K or so there is no need for anti seize and they shouldn't spit out from loosening up. For some reason Ford couldn't have 1 torque setting for all modulars all years they very by year and engine but are all in the 14-17 range IIRC.