Question : Sparkplug thread repair

[Azrael]

I couldn't find a specific thread and wanted to know what you guys recommend.

Helicoil/perma-coil kits come to mind but I hear stories of the coils coming back out with the plugs later on. Or are these stories likely from lack of, or improper application of anti-seize?

Also, is this kind of procedure safe to do without pulling a cylinder head?

[60dgrzbelow0]

Az... The cautionary tale here is to make certain that the kit you choose is specific for Spark Plug Hole Repair and not a generic for a common matching thread/pitch kit. This is just a general instructional video that shows a basic installation:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFYa6sjhh_E

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdB4xnjwSns&NR=1&feature=fvwp

Spark Plug Specific...and note the use of Thread-Locker to improve the success possibilities of the Heli-Coil staying in place:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vIVzE5cOWac

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ntiy8L97Nco&feature=related

And if your skills are sharp with working on aluminium...always delicate stuff...Here is a Bolt Hole Re-Thread Technique:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=843jjv58BCA&feature=related

And from Costa-Mesa R&D ... A Rare Bow-Tie V6 Main Cap Repair...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLXujavm26g&NR=1&feature=fvwp

If this repair has to be done on the vehicle...this video on a Ford Triton Motor shows additional helpful tools and techniques that might help you avoid having to pull an engine head:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDL3i6mT8V4&NR=1&feature=fvwp

[bob442]

what is the situation? if the plug feels like the threads are EFFFED when you try to thread the plug in? if thats the case the princess auto on regent has the spark plug re-threading tool, i've used it on 3 separate vehicles, 2 being 60* and turned out great, its a tap with a socket fitting on the end so you can use a ratchet with an extension.

[Azrael]

The last time I pulled the plugs out #1 didn't want to tighten fully. I pulled it again and found bits of aluminum in the threads. It still somehow stays put while the engine runs but there are signs of soot on the plug boot so it's not sealing completely.

[bob442]

I'd try running it through before heli coiling it, if you want drop by my place this week we can run the tool through the plug hole. I had the same issues with all 3 other cars, i could get them half way in then they would sieze up. i'm in the EK area.

60dgrzbelow0 you should submit all that to Brad lol along with a picture of the tool i'm talking about:

http://www.google.ca/imgres?imgurl=http://media.cygnus.com/files/cygnus/image/PTEN/2008/FEB/300x300/12230oxygensensorthreadchaser_10098601.png&imgrefurl=http://directory.pten.com/product/10098602/Lisle_Corp_12230_Oxygen_Sensor_Thread_Chaser&usg=__F9wl81xa6R9cEvhBas9A9endMfs=&h=300&w=300&sz=60&hl=en&start=54&sig2=w1JeeXku55l7s1CpmEJYcQ&zoom=1&tbnid=lbdesZ1rXf4KkM:&tbnh=160&tbnw=155&ei=Ul47TayFLoP6lwf9z4DqBQ&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dspark%2Bplug%2Bthread%2Bchaser%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26biw%3D901%26bih%3D493%26tbs%3Disch:1&um=1&itbs=1&iact=rc&dur=63&oei=PV47TYi4OYSClAfb9IXlBg&esq=8&page=7&ndsp=8&ved=1t:429,r:1,s:54&tx=56&ty=92

EDIT: you know it might be cheaper to call the piston ring there and get one brought in, they're only 12-16$

[Alxsmt]

I would be scared of doing anything that involves metal shavings, with the heads on the engine.

[bob442]

not if you grease the flutes so nothing drops in. Its a very practiced method.

[60dgrzbelow0]

I'd try running it through before heli coiling it, if you want drop by my place this week we can run the tool through the plug hole. I had the same issues with all 3 other cars, i could get them half way in then they would sieze up. i'm in the EK area.

60dgrzbelow0 you should submit all that to Brad lol along with a picture of the tool i'm talking about:

http://www.google.ca/imgres?imgurl=http://media.cygnus.com/files/cygnus/image/PTEN/2008/FEB/300x300/12230oxygensensorthreadchaser_10098601.png&imgrefurl=http://directory.pten.com/product/10098602/Lisle_Corp_12230_Oxygen_Sensor_Thread_Chaser&usg=__F9wl81xa6R9cEvhBas9A9endMfs=&h=300&w=300&sz=60&hl=en&start=54&sig2=w1JeeXku55l7s1CpmEJYcQ&zoom=1&tbnid=lbdesZ1rXf4KkM:&tbnh=160&tbnw=155&ei=Ul47TayFLoP6lwf9z4DqBQ&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dspark%2Bplug%2Bthread%2Bchaser%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26biw%3D901%26bih%3D493%26tbs%3Disch:1&um=1&itbs=1&iact=rc&dur=63&oei=PV47TYi4OYSClAfb9IXlBg&esq=8&page=7&ndsp=8&ved=1t:429,r:1,s:54&tx=56&ty=92

EDIT: you know it might be cheaper to call the piston ring there and get one brought in, they're only 12-16$

Not sure which of the items I mentioned are involved with your suggestion...but the link you showed on the O2 Sensor Bung Thread Chaser is very timely and helpful to me. Thanks! Not to jack Az's thread here...but I have to R&R the exhaust manifolds on both a 3.4L and LT-1 set of engines and that tool would simplify the cleanout of the bungs at various places on both exhausts. I'm with Azreal on his reluctance to meddle with aluminum heads while still on the car. It would be cool if you had some digital images and a handy "How-To" on this, Bob.