Torque and Chrome

do you need to use a torque wrench when doing up the sum nut on a car and also when you change the spark plugs?

i am fixing my mums car over the weekend and its been some time when i have had to do this on a car and now i can't remember weather you have to use atorquee wrench when changing the oil and the spark plugs can some one help me?

Public Comments

1. I don't use a torque wrench for plugs or an oil change. Just make sure you do not over tighten the plugs or drain plug.
2. You don't need a torque wrench. Tighten them enough but don't reef on them. Make sure to warm the engine up before removing the spark plugs or you will wind up with the threads from the aluminum cylinder head, stuck onto the spark plugs when they come out.
3. No need for a torque wrench. Plugs -- install finger tight, until the metal ring gasket contacts the head, then tighten 1/4 turn with the spark plug socket. Oil filter - install it by hand until the rubber gasket contacts the filter mount, then another 1/4 turn. Same for the drain plug. Be sure to check for oil leaks after running it a little while. This link for spark plugs will help you if you don't have a torque wrench. http://www.autolite.com/carcare/tech/TorqueSpecs.pdf
4. every nut and bolt on a car has a torque value if you want to be sure, use a torque wrench if you want to wing it, don't and if you are working on an aluminum cylinder head, the last thing you want to do is start it, cold aluminum is safe to work on, preferably after sitting overnight. it's best to use an anti-seize compound on the threads of the new spark plugs as well.
5. i don,t ! all i use is a ratchet and plug socket for the plugs and just a wrench for the drain plug.