I'm all set to spend the few hours this weekend to tackle the plug and wire swap on my 04 SE7, but I haven't gone out and bought a torque wrench...yet...

Does everyone here use one for replacing the spark plugs or is it enough to "feel" the 25lbs that they're supposed to be torqued down to?

Yes, I know ideally your supposed to use one, but does everyone use one or is it just strongly suggested to do so...

 

I have a torque wrench but don't use it on spark plugs. I just don't use too long of a ratchet and just get them down snug but not super tight.

 

Sounds good. I'll probably do the same. I used to work on my dirt bike when I was a kid all the time and replaced a few spark plugs...just tightened them down snug and everything worked out...

Done quite a variety of work on cars, but never done spark plugs...

Is anti-seize or a couple drops of oil necessary on the spark plug threads when replacing or just snug them up bare?

 

People have differing opinions on antiseize on plugs. I use it sparingly but most spark plugs already have an an antiseize coating.

 

just snug them up don't over tighten them or all hell will break loose...

 

Good and snug and no anti seize.
I just spray the plug hole with Liquid Wrench before I remove the plug and again before I put the new one in.

 

Never-Seeze is perfect for spark plugs. I use the Pure Nickle as it resists higher temps (but is more toxic).


I've also used regular grade which actually works fine.


I use Never-Seeze because it's electrically conductive (not all anti-seize products are).

Correct torque is 18.0-21.6 lb-ft
I usually just tighten another 3/4 turn after the seat contacts the head.