Thorp Air Command - T18.net

I have auto sparkplugs installed in my 0-360. The plugs mount into adaptors which in turn are mounted into the normal spark plug holes in the cylinders. I am in the process of an annual and want to change the sparkplugs after doing the compression check. I would like to know the proper torque in Ft/lbs to apply to the adapters and the same info when mounting the sparkplugs into the adapters. Would appreciate any info.
Dave Flatter

Check the VANSAIRFORCE forum.
Here is a link using the search function:
http://www.vansairforce.com/community/s ... ert+torque
Also, I'm doing an experiment with 18mm plugs for Military Ground Power Units.
I got some Autolite 2223 plugs from AMAZON.com for about $1.97 ea.
These plugs look like black aircraft plugs. They use the same top threaded connection.
I got a set of 4 to try in an O-320 in a Wagabond.
Time will tell, the experiment just started this week, and the weather isn't co-operating.
The 2223 is the coldest in this range of plugs. If they foul, a hotter plug can be tried. If they show heat stress, the trial is over.

Just make them snug Dave, I use a relatively short handled socked and put a common sense amount of muscle to it. I define that as turn till it bottoms out then give it a little (very little) tug. Like around 1/8-1/4 turn.

_________________
Lee Walton
Houston, TX
N51863,N118LW
KEFD

30 ft-lbs. for both. Don't forget the anti-seize.

Oops. Lightspeed says 15 for the plug and 25 for the adaptor:
http://www.lightspeedengineering.com/Pr ... kplugs.htm

OK Guru's, why do we care what torque we install a bolt, plug, sparkplug etc.?

I always tighten them until they strip and then back off a half turn.

Good point, Bill. .. I bet the exact torque achieved doesn't really matter that much as long as it's within a certain range. (ie, between stripping and loose.) I know there is engineering science behind developing a torque number, and in some rare cases it's really important to get it right on the money, but I think in a lot of cases it's just a number so that folks who don't have a feel for it know when to stop turning. My Humble Opinion.

Are we freakin serious here?!?!? We're talking about spark plugs!!! Calm down and be civil, name one bolt on this airplane that requires a specific torque value that's not internal to the power plant and I'll buy you a cigar.The operative word here is common sense Marc/Richard.

_________________
Lee Walton
Houston, TX
N51863,N118LW
KEFD

I grew up keeping farm equipment running, spent seven years as a professional mechanic and several years crewing on a dragster. Between every pass the plugs came out and then back in to aluminum heads and I never had a problem and never used a torque wrench. I think I know how to safely put plugs in with out a torque wrench.

My O360 should be coming out of the shop any day from its overhaul, it has new cylinders and I got a pretty good deal for twelve thousand dollars! I

_________________
http://www.dixiefriedfabrication.com/

I'm not going to keep going back and forth with you on this Richard. We're talking about SPARK PLUGS!! If carrying a torque wrench around with you makes you feel better about the mechanical soundness of your airplane that's your deal. The original question here was asked by a guy whom I consider to have enough common sense to judge whether a spark plug is tight enough or not, this thread was not started for you to reprimand people and their mechanical practices but to simply get a spark plug tight. But like I said if it makes you feel better to keep a well calibrated torque wrench with you at all times, to each his own. Personally I'm not loosing sleep over the mechanical soundness of my airplane.

It's St Pattis ... I'm going to listen to some diddly diddly and drink some guiness! Slainte!!

_________________
Lee Walton
Houston, TX
N51863,N118LW
KEFD

Fair nuff Richard. I'll see you in a week plus a few days and we can smoke the peace pipe over some sun n fun festival food!

_________________
Lee Walton
Houston, TX
N51863,N118LW
KEFD