I'm a new owner of a 2007 XLT with 47K on the motor. As a long term Chevy owner, I find the Ford to be surprisingly nice! I'm going to change the plugs and have found all the information (and opinions) here both useful and interesting. I'm puzzled by repeated suggestions to NOT use anti-seize on the spark plug threads. I thought you would always use anti-seize when you're screwing steel into aluminum. What's the rationale for not using it in the 5.4 Triton application?

Thanks for any info.

 

From what I understand about this is that if you use anti seize you will run the risk of shooting your plugs thru your hood. I believe they can come loose and pop out. I am sure other will have more info.

Kev

 

The threads have a coating which does not require anti sieze. Use of anti sieze will interfere with proper torqueing and can cause the plugs to work loose. You use nickel anti sieze on the shank only, to reduce carbon build up.

 

Your 07 uses 2 piece plugs, which have a tendency to stick and break. The recommendation for no antiseize applies to the older engines with 4 thread heads, not yours. For yours, the use of nickel antiseize is mandatory on the ground sleeves and optional on the threads. It's not necessary to use on the threads as long as they are nickel plated (which OEM Motorcraft plugs are).