To anti-seize or not? | FerrariChat

To anti-seize or not?

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by FamilyCar, Oct 1, 2010.

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  1. FamilyCar

    FamilyCar Formula Junior
    Rossa Subscribed

    Sep 26, 2007
    790
    Seattle, Wa
    Full Name:
    Peter Goodall
    I've been searching threads and looking on-line for a reasonable answer to the following: Just when is anti-seize appropriate? I never have worried about this on other cars, but a mistake here would just be too expensive.

    Most of the threads seem to deal with specific instances such as sparkplugs, and I don't feel the on-line information is as accurate as I could find here. I do have a specific application in mind, in this instance the bolts that lock down the timing belt tensioners on the 3.2L V-8, although I'd appreciate a broader response.

    For background, many of the connections on my car seem to have last been tightened by a gorilla. I've had enough bad experience with corrosion and seized fasteners that I would like to apply a very small amount of anti-seize to most threaded connections on the outside of the engine, hopefully a small enough amount that it would provide some protection without significantly affecting torquing.

    I suppose the places to definitely use anti-seize are on high heat areas and dissimilar metals. What are your thoughts on other locations?

    Thanks in advance.

    Peter
     
  2. Mitch Alsup

    Mitch Alsup F1 Veteran

    Nov 4, 2003
    9,742
    Anti-seize is appropriate when the threaded fastener and the threaded part are of different metals and will galvanically-corrode if not so treated. Steel into aluminum is one example (spark plug is steel, head is aluminum).
     
  3. 2NA

    2NA F1 World Champ
    Consultant Owner Professional Ferrari Technician

    Dec 29, 2006
    18,221
    Twin Cities
    Full Name:
    Tim Keseluk
    Copper anti-seize is good on spark plugs, lug bolts/nuts, splined (knockoff) hubs, exhaust system fasteners, stainless steel fittings and fasteners.
     
  4. FasterIsBetter

    FasterIsBetter F1 Veteran

    Jul 22, 2004
    5,856
    NoNJ/Jupiter FL
    Full Name:
    Steve W.
    You should also check the general instructions given in the manufacturer's shop manuals. I know, for example, that in the shop manuals for my Corvette (C5), there are specific instances when anti-sieze is called for, and other instances where you are warned NOT to use anti-sieze. Using it when you shouldn't is far worse in most situations than not using it when you should. You don't want a part working loose when it should be staying tight.
     
  5. 2NA

    2NA F1 World Champ
    Consultant Owner Professional Ferrari Technician

    Dec 29, 2006
    18,221
    Twin Cities
    Full Name:
    Tim Keseluk
    Yes, some fasteners are designed to be installed dry or with a specific lubricant.

    Many should be installed with an adhesive (loctite).

    Clamping force can be greatly influenced by thread lubrication and applied torque needs to consider this.
     

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