Spark Plugs Loose
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Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 19,311
Likes: 97
From: Waterloo, Iowa
Spark Plugs Loose
Every now and then would find a plug loose in the 292, using 45s. Found a NOS box of old school Champions for a tune up and just to be sure, torqued them to 20 ft.lbs. Replaced plug wires the other day and decided to check the plugs and every single one was loose. What's the deal with that?
Logistics Pro
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 3,771
Likes: 80
From: tujunga, calif
I can't imagine what would cause that. In all the years I have been using Ford engines I've only had one plug come loose and I'm sure it was my fault. Are you sure your torque wrench is reading correctly. If it's a click type and you don't zero it after every use and put it away loaded it will screw it up..
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 2,389
Likes: 58
I thread mine finger tight and then give them a nudge so they require a wrench to remove but they're not that tight, either. Have not yet had a problem.
It sounds like this has been going on for a bit but one has not yet blown out. I think you're ok as long as they're not so loose that you can unscrew them by hand.
It sounds like this has been going on for a bit but one has not yet blown out. I think you're ok as long as they're not so loose that you can unscrew them by hand.
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Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 19,311
Likes: 97
From: Waterloo, Iowa
Well that's the thing. It's not OK if they loosen up. Btw, had forgotten what a pain changing spark plug wires are on Y blocks. Those frigging clamps. Dennis Carpenter sells nice rubber inserts so everything is all spiffy and new.
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Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 2,389
Likes: 58
Are you sure they are loosening? Torque one and then remove it. That will give you an idea if it is actually getting loose and if the torque wrench may be bad or need recalibration.
If they all are loosening, and you've used totally different plugs, then the torque wrench is suspect. If it was only one or two, then bad plug threads could be a possibility.
The clamps aren't bad with stock diameter wires. If you leave the bolt loose, you can more easily adjust the wires so they reach and look nice. They do hold the wires better than any other I've seen on a factory engine.
If they all are loosening, and you've used totally different plugs, then the torque wrench is suspect. If it was only one or two, then bad plug threads could be a possibility.
The clamps aren't bad with stock diameter wires. If you leave the bolt loose, you can more easily adjust the wires so they reach and look nice. They do hold the wires better than any other I've seen on a factory engine.
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