Spark Plugs!!!
- Thread starter ace
- Start date
You should always use antiseize on plugs if you have an aluminum head. The last thing you want to do is pull the threads out of the head along with the plug the next time you change them.
I used a copper-based anti-seize compound on my plugs. I highly doubt it has any effect on the conductivity of the spark plugs.
I used a copper-based anti-seize compound on my plugs. I highly doubt it has any effect on the conductivity of the spark plugs.
Food for thought- This is off of pelicanparts.com:
"Install each plug into the cylinder heads without using any anti-seize compound. Torque the spark plugs to 25 Nm (18.4 ft-lbs). While writing "How to Rebuild and Modify Porsche 911 Engines", I discovered that Porsche doesn’t recommend the use of anti-seize compound, as detailed in Porsche Technical Bulletin 9102, Group 2, identifier 2870. The bulletin applies retroactively to all Porsche models and the theory is that the anti-seize tends to act as an electrical insulator between the plug and the cylinder head. This could have detrimental effect on the firing of the spark due to the loss of a good, consistent ground connection. Keeping those findings in mind, I would make the same recommendations for the BMW cars."
"Install each plug into the cylinder heads without using any anti-seize compound. Torque the spark plugs to 25 Nm (18.4 ft-lbs). While writing "How to Rebuild and Modify Porsche 911 Engines", I discovered that Porsche doesn’t recommend the use of anti-seize compound, as detailed in Porsche Technical Bulletin 9102, Group 2, identifier 2870. The bulletin applies retroactively to all Porsche models and the theory is that the anti-seize tends to act as an electrical insulator between the plug and the cylinder head. This could have detrimental effect on the firing of the spark due to the loss of a good, consistent ground connection. Keeping those findings in mind, I would make the same recommendations for the BMW cars."
I can't argue with that, but must say that I never had a problem with my plugs. I have on the other hand seen many cylinder heads stripped when someone attempted to remove old plugs that did not have anti-seize on them. I began using it at the recommendation of my BMW mechanic. I'd suggest you discuss it with your local BMW mechanic.
I find it very strange that Porsche has decided not to use anti-seize compound on the plug threads. The first car I've had that had an aluminum head was my BMW, and I have used anti-seize on its plugs with no problems whatsoever. I don't use antiseize on the plugs in my Camaro, but it has iron heads, and they don't really need anti-seize. Everyone I have ever encountered that has aluminum heads has always said that you should use antiseize on spark plugs with aluminum heads. Aluminum is a LOT weaker than iron, especially with fine threads like those on spark plugs. With the constant heating and cooling cycles and the potential for oxidation in the threads due to the disparity between the aluminum of the head and steel of the sparkplug threads, you'd better believe I'm going to continue to use anti-seize on my plugs, no matter what Porsche says.
Just my opinion.
Just my opinion.
