Voice123

I'm replacing my old spark plugs with new R45S plugs. It came with rings, what do I do with them?

I've never replaced spark plugs in my life, any tips?

Thanks in advance for your comments and suggestions.

Dan Hampton

Are you talking about the the gasket that sits on the shoulder of the spark plug, below the threads? If so, install them with the gaskets, using the correct torque specs. Make sure to hand thread the new plugs a turn or two when installing to avoid any cross threading.

Voice123

Yes. Do you know what the correct torque spec might be?

Dan Hampton

25 ft/lbs.

MikeM

The next question will be:

Does the narrow side of the copper ring go up or does it go down?

Powershift

The spark plugs also need to be checked for the proper gap, and adjusted if needed. Gap is 0.032 to 0.035 inch.

Torque at 25 ft-lbs as Dan has already stated.

Don't worry about MikeM and the gasket orientation.

Larry

Voice123

I've read that the narrow part of the ring should face the threads or towards the block.

Frankie the Fink

Are you guys sure about 25 ft-lbs ? That is the torque used on the steering wheel nut to keep it on and it is a LOT...

Powershift

That is per the Chevrolet Service Manual and what I remember for the larger size plugs that take the gasket.

The tapered series plugs for later years (which have a smaller wrench size) are torqued to 12-15 ft-lbs (if I recall correctly).

Most folks just install with a 3/8 inch ratchet and go hand tight and call it quits.

Larry

Voice123

Correct me if I'm wrong here, but I'm wondering if hand tight is enough because the ring needs to compress to make a good contact or should I still use the torque wrench for 25 ft-lb

jdk971

go finger tight, then put the socket on and just tighten a little. jmho jim

Powershift

A 3/8 inch ratchet and socket will provide approx 20-25 ft-lbs torque in the hands of most folks.

If you think you need more "oomph", use a 1/2 inch drive breaker bar.

Larry

PS: The point is, this is not a super critical torque for the car. Most spark plugs installed over the last 50 years have never seen a torque wrench in their lifetime.

Although I use a torque wrench now for spark plugs, I have probably installed over 500 spark plugs on my cars using a simple ratchet/breaker bar and socket. Never had a problem.

MikeM

Spark plugs that have the copper gasket and that are too loose will run hot if you don't properly compress the gasket.

What is the proper way to turn the copper gasket? Narrow side up or down?

Dan Hampton

Motor Repair Manual 1966, 29th. Edition. A firm tightening with a 3/8 rachet will do the trick. Like Powershift, I have changed in excess of 2,000 plugs in my life and have never used a torque wrench. Old Fords were the most difficult because they employed a tapered seat vis a vis the copper ring. Those plugs would almost weld themselves to the head if not changed periodically. T-Birds were horrible because of the lack of room and the leverage needed to break the plug free.

Dave64

My research found that the wide side of the gasket should be oriented toward the plug. Most sources said it induces better heat transfer from plug to the head. Don't think I've ever seen it the other way around...Besides, the gasket is sealing two flat surfaces...

Dave64

Powershift

Mike:

I know that..... But I (and probably you also) have installed hundreds of these plugs without a torque wrench. Did you use a torque wrench for plugs when you were younger?? Do you use one now for the older, cast iron heads?? I certainly did not......and never had a problem or misfire related to spark plug tightening (or lack thereof).

There probably is a correct way to install this gasket, but millions have been installed both ways over the years. I generally put the smaller end of the gasket toward the head. Is that what you recommend??

Surely there are more important things for us to comment on.

Larry

63split63

Why are you asking about the rings ? Are you sure you have the proper plug for your heads ?

Bill

rongold

Without a torque wrench, the way to install them is turn them until the plug seats against the gasket and then go 1/4 turn more. You have to crush the gasket to get the proper heat transfer. I read that many years ago in either an AC or Champion service bulletin.

Voice123

Appreciated the spirited debate....thank you all for your suggestions!!!!

I love this forum and would not trade it for the world!!!

Thanks again!!!!

Jeff Garner

I just installed AC Delco R45S plugs on my 87 Silverado and they did not come with the gaskets.