Newbie question about changing spark plugs...

[m4gician]

Reading through and before attempting this on Saturday, I just want to know how can I measure how much in lb i use when turning the torque wrench? Basically I'm asking what do you mean when tightening the plug is 140 in lb of torque?

[Heywood]

You can either use a torque wrench which will tell you how much force you are putting on. The way I did it was to screw the plug in finger tight (without the rachet on the extension) and then give it approximately a 1/4 turn or until it was firm using a 3/8 ratchet. If you do this, you just want to make sure that you don't overdo it. Remember FIRM, not as tight as you can get it.

[m4gician]

so lets say using hte torque wrench I feel it tighten after just being loose, one more 1/4 turn and that's it?

[96BlackSE]

7-15 lb ft according to the service manuals

[Ray]

Using the torque wrench will ELIMINATE having to stop it, or guess how tight. it automatically clicks, or spins when reaching the desired torque level.

regular ratchets have to have YOU stop it, and guess.

[m4gician]

so basically turn until I ffeel (hear) a click...?

[hetfield]

so basically turn until I ffeel (hear) a click...?

It depends on the wrench.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque_wrench

[SVTJON87]

so the spec is 140lbs on a duratec?

[Big Jim]

so the spec is 140lbs on a duratec?

Only if you want to pull the threads out of the head. The most common torque wrenches read foot pounds. In foot pounds you only need about 10 to 15. To put that in perspective you nusully need about 100 foot pounds for wheel lug nuts.

140 INCH pounds sounds about right if you have an INCH pound torque wrench.

I made my living as a tune up mechanic for several years. Other than in a training class, I never used a torque wrench when installing plugs and never had any trouble from it. You eventually learn to feel the correct tightness. If you have done much of any auto repairs with hand tools, you should know how it feels.

[SVTJON87]

haha i didnt see they were talking about INCH lbs, i was like wtf thats tight as heck