Can spark plugs be on too tight?

[S_Ranger]

How tight should I have them on, I've tightened them so they can't turn no more, is that too tight? Will it affect performance?

 

[MyBlack94GST]

That's always a bad idea - it's pretty easy to strip the threads in your aluminum head. You should never put strength into tightening a spark plug.

 

[cuttheduck]

That's always a bad idea - it's pretty easy to strip the threads in your aluminum head. You should never put strength into tightening a spark plug.

Amen, use a torque wrench. Otherwise serious headaches result.

 

[DSMcamaro]

yea, not too tight or you'll never get them off next time you wanna change them ( might stripe the threads in the head). never hurts to use some anti-sieze on the plugs either(especially with aluminum heads).

 

[FORMONTOYA]

you don't really need a torque wrench. however, you don't have to twist them on as tight as a head bolt either.

jim

 

[JPGRL]

I heard you should get them seated, then turn 1/2 turn more. (But I use a torque wrench to be sure.)

 

[psychlow]

Spark plugs should never be tightened that tight.

Aluminum heads are very easy to strip. If you strip the spark plug sockets, you'll probably be pulling the head to replace the threads.