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96' 1.6L - iron head or aluminum? Are these very specific about torque for spark plug installation?
I don't have an inch-lbs wrench, only an foot-lbs...

 
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pretty sure aluminum. the factory plug torque is around 13 ft/lbs but i do 20 to be safe so they dont get loosened. try not to tighten any more than that.

 
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You definitely have an aluminum head. Honda specs 13 ft-lbs and use a little anti-seize on the threads.

 
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Thanks gang - went smooth as a bunny's butt!

 
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You do not put anything on the threads that will change the final clamping force/torque spec

 
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Well you should put some copper grease or anti-seize on the threads so your plug doesn't weld itself in there over time. For new plugs you tighten down until you feel resistance as you start compressing the washer, then keep going about a further quarter to half turn with a small 3/8" drive ratchet until you hit a much firmer stop as the plug washer is then fully compressed and your plugs are in tight enough.

The spec. is 13 ft-lb but better to do it by feel I think. If threads are lubricated then derate the torque to about 10 ft-lb if using a torque wrench.

I don't understand that comment above about doing to 20 ft-lb 'to be on the safe side'?? You are more likely to cause yourself grief with stripped threads by over-torquing than 'being safe'! The plugs aren't going to come loose even at 10 ft-lb torque.

 
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Check out how to properly install here. I dont understand the anti seize cause it messes with the torque in the owners manual.