I apologize if this is silly or stupid, but I am changing out my old spark plugs and I don't want to screw it up (I have never done this before). I have heard horror stories of overtightening the plugs or not tightening them enough...

Can somebody with the patience walk me through the best and proper way to change out the plugs...

Flux - who is always learning

 

Do you have a torque wrench?

 

yes

 

Then you don't have to worry about anything!!!
I don't know the torque specs of the plugs now, but it's written in the user manual....

 

It's not a dumb question. I'd like to know also. Maybe if I get this spark plug thing right, I'll move on to a valve adjustment.

 

I believe spark plugs get 14 ft-lbs torque.

 

turn the new spark plug until it seats, then 1/2 turn
this only applies to NEW plugs.

 

It is also a good idea not to use the ratchet wrench until you screw the plug by hand (turn the ratchet extention and sprak plug socket by hand until the plug is seated). This is to prevent damaging the aluminium threads.

 

Here are a few more tips.

1. Gap the plugs before you install them, do not trust the gap specs out of the box.
2. I like to use a very thin coat of anti-seize on the new plug threads.
3. When you screw in the new plugs, start them by hand without using a ratchet so you don't mess up the threads. I like to start screwing the plug counterclockwise until you feel the threads 'click', then screw it in clockwise.
4. Torque them down to factory spec (14 lb-ft??). It's in the owner's manual.