did i damge the heads while changing spark plugs?

[mlupone]

I have a 2.3L Quad OHC and I am concerned that I may have damaged my heads while chaging my spark plugs.

The car doesn't exhibit any problems currently, but I didn't let the heads cool completely before replacing the spark plugs. I did use extra caution because of the aluminum heads. I let the engine cool somewhat before I began (The engine temperature was about 138 degrees before i began the procedure.)

The old ones came out very easily, but the new ones didn't go in as swift. I received slight tension before they were halfway in the spark plug hole (i put antiseize compound before begining). I very carefully tightened them by hand and then using a torque wrench ensuring that I wasn't stripping any of the threads. They all went in about the same. Thats the good news.

Afterward I read in a Chilton's manual that said you have to let the heads completely cool before removing and replacing the spark plugs. A mechanic friend of mine said it should be okay...he said its possible that I may have a problem the next time i replace the spark plugs but for now i should be okay.

Should I be worried that i may have damaged the heads?

[FormulaLT1]

I wouldn't be worried about if I was you. I have changed the plugs on my car before which has aluminuim heads when it wasn't completely cooled off before and the as long as you used the anti seize like you said you did. I think you will be just fine but if you run out of things to worry about just loosen them and retighten them when the engine is completely cooled off this will not even require fully taking them out. The reason that they recommend waiting til the engine is completely cool is because aluminuim expands slightly when heated and you stand the chance of creating alot of pressure on the plug and head but if you could touch it couldn't have been that hot.

John