KymcoForum.com
General => Technical | How To => Topic started by: Stig / Major Tom on September 15, 2013, 03:06:10 PM
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I'm getting ready to check the valve lash on my LIKE 200i and thought I'd like to also replace the iridium plug - this time installing the new plug with some anti-size paste. Since an iridium plug is going to be in that alloy head for a very long time - these plugs last forever compared to a reg. plug - some anti-sieze paste seemed a good idea. Not so, I discovered.
Looking up where to purchase this paste I came across this post from NGK :
http://www.ngksparkplugs.com/pdf/TB-0630111antisieze.pdf (http://www.ngksparkplugs.com/pdf/TB-0630111antisieze.pdf)
I'd heard something like this before - but then one hears a whole lot of mechanical advice stuff............
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May come down to individual "sense of torque" . . as evidenced by the numerous GY6 stripped spark plug thread postings on various forums. Aluminum thread galling is definitely a factor in an environment of 300°F cylinder head temperatures and continuous heat-cooling cycles. I guess everyone has to make their own determination on this one . . go with your instincts!
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Have used anti seize on all plugs for years. No problems.
I think it is a must on aluminum heads.
The damaged plugs in that picture are a factory defect or the result of over tightening.
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When working on automobiles and equipment, I always use anti seize on aluminum heads. Trick is just enough to coat the threads but not enough to squish out at either end of the threaded portion. Just as important is making sure you don't get it on your fingers, as a grey fingerprint on the ceramic section of the plug will cause a misfire (anti seize conducts current). Although the NGK paper has some merit, I have squeaked enough 100K+ mile plugs out of overhead cam engines to know you cant depend on their special coating to save those threads next time.
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Is there more than one type/brand of anti-seize paste or one that is better?
This will be a whole new experience for me as I have never been a fixer upper.
I do plan to do most or all of my own maintenance.
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There is more than one brand. However I have always used permatex brand. They offer copper, nickel, and the standard aluminum/copper/graphite that I have used forever.
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I too recommend and have always used anti-seize. The important thing to remember is a gentle snug up is all that is needed. No need to overtighten.
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OK, how about I just break the iridium plug loose 1/2 turn and re-snug 1/2 turn every time I do the valves (@ Q-1000 miles), using no anti-sieze paste? That way it isn't planted in there too long.
Why not remove it, you say ? Always concerned about cross threading this finely threaded little plug even with fingers when I run it back in.
I'll probably replace the iridium plug every winter. $7 isn't an issue, once a year.