1998 Camry I4 5SFE engine I'm trying to confirm the torque on the 30mm spark plug tube nuts that secure the valve cover.. Haynes manual shows 33 FTLB and Toyota shows 17 FTLB. Which one is correct ? 17 seems too low.
[SOLVED] Spark plug tube torque Solved
Dec 05, 2011
Last reply: 2 years ago
3 Replies
Most relevant reply
17 ft lbs is the correct torque for the nuts that hold the valve cover down. The 33 lbs may be for the tube itself. That’s what I’m surfing to find out.
Read the full reply
After investigating, I've come to the conclusion that the torque specs changed from Gen 3 to Gen 4. Both the Toyota and the Haynes manuals confirm this. They increased the torque and I believe the rubber seals are thicker on the later design. Toyota probably did this due to the sealing problems with this engine.
Any Toyota techs out there that can confirm this?
17 ft lbs is the correct torque for the nuts that hold the valve cover down. The 33 lbs may be for the tube itself. That’s what I’m surfing to find out.
My guess was correct. You torque to 33 lbs without the valve cover to get the tubes properly tightened (use appropriate thread sealant). Remove nuts and install valve cover and top tube seals. Install nuts and torque to 17 lbs.
Join the Discussion
Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.
Didn't find your answer?
Ask the community — no account required