[schleppy]

I'm about to swap plugs on my SV, and I wanted to see if there was any compelling reason to NOT use a little anti-seize on the spark plugs. I have a little packet of standard anti-seize that I was planning on using, but I heard I should use copper since the SV has aluminum heads.

Thoughts?

[brendanp]

you should always use it IMO.

[bergs]

I've never used copper or graphite anti-seize on my spark plugs in particular....don't see how it would make a difference unless you plan to keep them in there for 10 years...

If you are going to use it, don't use the graphite-based anti-seize on the plugs as it doesn't withstand the extreme temps like the copper stuff does.

[schleppy]

Originally Posted by bergs

I've never used copper or graphite anti-seize on my spark plugs in particular....don't see how it would make a difference unless you plan to keep them in there for 10 years...

If you are going to use it, don't use the graphite-based anti-seize on the plugs as it doesn't withstand the extreme temps like the copper stuff does.

Good call. I should have a tube of it around anyway.

Anyone else have any pearls of wisdom?

[bergs]

You don't need alot.

What you think you might need on those threads, use half that.

[brendanp]

Let me be a little more clear. I was not saying to use copper. I was saying that I always use the anti-sieze. The stuff I use is a silvery color.

[MattyC]

Could it be Nickel? Nickel anti-sieze is sort of a dark silvery color and is good to 2400F. That should withstand quite a bit

[SSearchVT]

The copper stuff (high temp) is best to use on sparkplugs. That said - I have the regular in my garage and use it on everything. And as said before - just a little goes a long way with plugs. After I put it on the threads I wipe the face of the plug clean.

[schleppy]

Originally Posted by brendanp

Let me be a little more clear. I was not saying to use copper. I was saying that I always use the anti-sieze. The stuff I use is a silvery color.

Gotcha.

I'll give the packet of stuff I have a read. If it doesn't seem like it's good for alum. I'll get a tube of the copper stuff. I might as well have both kinds around anyway. I can always use the gray stuff on lug nuts.

[Billy]

I've used it before when i've changed my plugs. You dont need a lot.

[bergj1986]

I agree with bergs, I've never needed to use it on plugs because most people don't keep plugs in the heads for extended periods of time. You can run into trouble, however, if you use anti-seize that isn't rated for high temps and it melts itself into the threads of the plug and head. To avoid that, I just don't use anti-seize.

[Billy]

When in doubt, do what your MOM (Motorcycle Operation Manual) or your service manual says for replacing the plugs.

[bergs]

Originally Posted by brendanp

I was saying that I always use the anti-sieze. The stuff I use is a silvery color.

That's GRAPHITE!

[schleppy]

Originally Posted by BadBoyBilly

When in doubt, do what your MOM (Motorcycle Operation Manual) or your service manual says for replacing the plugs.

I checked that and the service manual and I didn't see any mention of anti-seize. I think I may just skip it.

[Ericthejet]

I have used it for many years.
They make a specific type for spark plugs, look like a big crayon.
Meets heat specs. etc.
I find the plugs thread in really nice and always break free easily when I change them once a year. (old bike)

[brendanp]

I dont care what the service manual says... this is the old "ounce of prevention" rule....

[seth505]

no need for anti-sieze

[bergs]

^^

They're not gonna listen...