Anti seize

[LettersFromFlyoverCountry]

I'm not much of a gearhead, so please excuse me. Where, when and how is anti-seize compound used?

[Sid Lambert]

Spark plugs mainly. Any place that you have dissimilar metals or that has high heat and will need to be removed on a regular basis.

[lancef53]

On the farm, we use it for just about anything that we think we might want to ever take apart again. On the airplane, maybe on some of the control tube bolts, tailwheel tube, inspection plates, stuff that has metal on metal but has lock washers to keep it together. If you really don't think it will ever be removed, I would not bother with it.

[N941WR]

And on my track car I used it on the lug nuts.

[LettersFromFlyoverCountry]

The bolts attaching the alternator to the engine would be a candidate here, then?

[gasman]

Originally Posted by Bob Collins

The bolts attaching the alternator to the engine would be a candidate here, then?

Nor really. The alternator is bolted to it's bracket. That will not be a problem.

The main place is the spark plugs. But don't over do it. People think that they need to fill the threads with the stuff. All you need it to brush it on thin with an acid brush. When you go to remove the plug, you will not have a mess to clean up in the threads.

[morlino]

You should be aware that if you use anti-seize on a bolt and the torque specification is for a dry bolt then you will probably over-tighten the bolt (and possibly by quite a lot).

Sorry for the generic warning - I wish I could offer you some more specific information about using it on your alternator bolt

[flion]

Be aware that there is a liquid anti-seize and a paste. The paste is not what you want to use with your spark plugs but too many auto parts stores sell it and don't carry the liquid anymore. The paste stuff is excellent on: exhaust studs, starter studs and bolts, clamp fasteners (especially where heat is or corrosion may occur), and so on. Do not use where nylon locking nuts are used or where you don't want the paste to intrude. Heed the warning above about torque values.

[dmaib]

On the spark plugs, be careful not to get any anti seize on the electrode. Just a light coating on the threads. I usually don't put any on the bottom two or three threads just to insure that none migrates to the electrode during installation.

[pierre smith]

...need it applied to the pins, since they move when the brakes are used and can get pretty hot. I apply it at brake pad changes on all my airplanes.

Best,