Copper anti-seize on spark plugs

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WEM

WEM

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I’m confused. (again? still? perpetually?). Several members have noted that you should use copper anti-seize on spark plugs but I have come across the following from NGK, “ Do not use anti-seize or lubricant on NGK spark plugs. It is completely unnecessary and can be detrimental.” (Bold type is from original source).
I guess my question is should I use copper anti-seize on my plugs or not? I’d also appreciate opinions on whether to apply copper anti-seize to exhaust lock rings. Thanks.
 
I use it on plugs because occasionally the want or need arises to remove/check them when riding, and I only carry a small tool!!!
But, always careful not to use too much or use it too far down the threads where it may end up on the 'business end'..
Just my two penn'orth :-)
 
I use NGK and always add a dot of copper grease, never had a problem. When I didn't I seized a plug in the head and it took ages to get the plug out without damaging the thread, it was a head off job to sort it out.

So yes is the answer.
 
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Do NGK provide torque wrench figures? Perhaps they're worried users might go too far with lubricated vs dry...
Plus of course they do other plugs in different diameters for other circumstances, perhaps more relevant there?
 
WEM said:
I guess my question is should I use copper anti-seize on my plugs or not? I’d also appreciate opinions on whether to apply copper anti-seize to exhaust lock rings.
Click to expand...
I prefer to use Graphogen on both (sparingly on plug threads).
 
Just don't torque the plugs down gorilla hard when everything is hot. I used the silver stuff until I ran out and now use a dab of the copper colored anti-seize since that is all they had at the local auto parts store. It's burned off the threads for the most part after a couple of rides. I think of it more as a sealer which it is not. I like the feedback from my plug wrench when I use anti-seize. It's smooth. I don't use NGK plugs.
 
WEM said:
I guess my question is should I use copper anti-seize on my plugs or not? I’d also appreciate opinions on whether to apply copper anti-seize to exhaust lock rings. Thanks.
Click to expand...
I use Nickel Anti-Seize on both, but sparingly. Permatex Copper -30 to 1800F, Nickel Up to 2400F.

Permatex says Nickel is OK on Spark Plugs and Copper is ideal on spark plugs in Aluminum heads. They say a tiny amount in any case.

On the exhaust ports try this. Put it together dry, tighten fully, and mark. Then try with a pea sized amount spread around the threads. You'll get them 1/2-3/4 turn tighter.
 
I got away from the ngk in Norton and went to denso brand always a smear of copper stuff , on the Griso the 2 plug heads demanded it as top 2 plugs always rusted in without it …. just a light smear is all that needed and will cause no issues … in my experience
 
the use of a high temp grease on plug threads each and every time
In a lot of applications plugs are torqued in. so applying a lubricant can cause them to be overtightened
 
My take on copper anti-seize is it functions as a lubricant and in the long run the theads in the aluminum head will have less wear.
Regarding anti-seize and torque settings: who uses a torque wrench to tighten up a spark plug in a Norton Commando? Really?
 
NGK state that their plugs are lubricated at the factory and it is detrimental to add more. I use anti-sieze on subsequent installations of the plug.
 
marshg246 said:
I use Nickel Anti-Seize on both, but sparingly. Permatex Copper -30 to 1800F, Nickel Up to 2400F.

Permatex says Nickel is OK on Spark Plugs and Copper is ideal on spark plugs in Aluminum heads. They say a tiny amount in any case.

On the exhaust ports try this. Put it together dry, tighten fully, and mark. Then try with a pea sized amount spread around the threads. You'll get them 1/2-3/4 turn tighter.
Click to expand...

triumph2 said:
NGK state that their plugs are lubricated at the factory and it is detrimental to add more. I use anti-sieze on subsequent installations of the plug.
Click to expand...

Ditto on both counts. Nickle based always, not copper.
 
Have never had issue with what I use or over tightening a spark plug in over 50 yrs , have at ‘er guys … not much else to discuss , maybe
 
Have never used anything on my plug threads, don't over tighten them and never had any problems at all with plug removal or plug threads in all my bikes the Norton I have owned since new.
 
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