IanB2

X2 on spark plug tube seals in the valvecover having failed on that oily cylinder. Can't say if that's related to it being loose or not though.

chiph9

I have done the spark plug tube seals. Totally worth paying someone else to do them - they're miserable to change.
Do the valve cover gaskets at the same time - by this time they're going to be hard as a rock. Should be a parts-cost only increase to the job.

Chip H.

dunk50

Thanks all but I think Chip said it best. I'm going to look for a shop to do the valve cover / tubes / bolts.

QuinGX

I recently replaced my spark plugs. Used a torque wrench for the first plug and it seemed insanely tight and didn’t feel right. I’ve read on this forum people saying torque specs between 15-21 ft- lbf
I tightened to feel on the other 7 plugs.

But ever since I’ve changed them I’ve been curios if anyone else has felt like the threads are gonna strip When they use a torque wrench and torque to 21 ft-lbf or if my torque wrench is way off.
Any feed back is appreciated and always love learning new things about my some what new to me GX470

chuyrobles

If you used anti-seize, the torque value should be reduced 10-15 %. I always use anti-seize and go by feel myself, for the plugs.

LeX2K

Never use anti-seize at best it does nothing in some cases it will fuse the plugs to the head.

chuyrobles

That’s ridiculous, and blasphemous. Except for head bolts, I’ve been using anti-seize on every fastener since I started wrenching in the 1980’s. I’ve never experienced this phenomenal you speak of.

LeX2K

NGK has some experience making spark plugs let's see that they say about it.
https://ngksparkplugs.com/en/resourc...ut-spark-plugs
You might be surprise to learn that just because something didn't happen to you doesn't mean that something is not real.

lexus13dan

Just hand tight, I wound not use a torque wrench

IanB2

That doesn't sound quite right...using anti-seize can result in the plug threads seizing?

I've never used a torque wrench for spark plugs, hand tight, makes sure the washer is compressed tight.

ALAN553

usually a quarter turn after contact is the correct torque, the good news is, the next time you may have to change these plugs...you will just be looking for a plug on the side of the road to recharge.

LeX2K

I've seen it happen over time the carrier grease of course dries out/burns off leaving the caked on material usually silver. Eventually it fuses to the head.

NTH

Always use a quality, calibrated torque wrench. Years ago on my first GX plug change, I went to 21 but thought that was a bit too much. This most recent change, some interwebz browsing showed 13. This equates to approximately 1/4 turn past point of contact.