Quick question, I have not been able to find any mention of the proper torque setting for plugs on a 5.4 (2001). I am sure someone must have mentioned it in a thread somewhere, but I havent seen it. In any event, can someone fill me in? Also, there seems to be dispute about the use of anti seize. Am I correct in thinking that 97-03 5.4s dont need any antiseize on the plug threads? Thanks.

 

The torque spec is 9-20 Nm or 78-176 in/lbs. No where does Ford recommend the use of anti seize on the spark plug threads for the 2 Valve engines. I personally use anti seize on the plug threads. I also torque them by feel.

Regards

Jean Marc Chartier

 

I appreciate the information, thanks.

 

sorry, my book also give a wide spread torque number. 78-176 is a large spread. is this right?

also I backed off a couple and check, they seem to be about 40-50.

 

meh, I just get them snug in there.. not loose and not TOO tight.

 

it was more like 25ft-lbs so I tried 15ft-lbs. didn't make it to 15. I think with the plug popping out caused the thread damage. not good.

 

spec for the 2v is 13ft/lbs

 

i go by feel, finger tight, then roughly 1/4 turn. never have had any problems over the course of 4 years and roughly 60k miles.

 

Remember this is inch pounds and that is 12 times less than foot pounds.

Regards

Jean Marc Chartier

 

I run them down by hand until they bottom out, and go another 1/8 to 1/4 turn. No anti seize.

Never had a problem.

 

right. figured that now. thanks.

 

18-22 Nm is the factory spec. for the 2V engine. Do NOT under or over torque them.

 

i wanna see u get a tq wrench in there on #4 and read it... lol

 

The 03's have two different sets of specs - Depending on the heads used - Reference build date/then VIN for the correct #'s in 03.. My service manual and on the DVD state~12 -16' lbs is spec (97 - 02). BTW - once there over torqued - DON'T back them off - it's to late. If you have , you'll be back in there wrenching on her real soon, bit it will be allot funner 2nd time around

I torque by feel as well - I run all the plugs to flush w/a length of 5/8 air hose per instructions. Then give them a little tweakage 1/4" or so. - Done ! And they stay there