Discussion
Car: Mk1 MX5
Anyone got any tips on the best tool for removing spark plugs. Not sure whether to use a standard socket with an extension bar, or a spark plug wrench like this :
http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/...
Plugs have been in there circa 2 years. Normally I would just get on with it, but this car seems to hate being worked on, any simple job turns into a big one!! The engine never gets touched (apart from 6000mile oil changes and checks). I really cant be arsed with snapping a plug off or xthreading it!
Also I'm sure Ive heard you need a 14mm socket head for the plugs, is this true?
Many thanks in advance, its always the simple jobs that turn into a bloody nightmare, while the more complex ones you worry about go according to plan!!!
Anyone got any tips on the best tool for removing spark plugs. Not sure whether to use a standard socket with an extension bar, or a spark plug wrench like this :
http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/...
Plugs have been in there circa 2 years. Normally I would just get on with it, but this car seems to hate being worked on, any simple job turns into a big one!! The engine never gets touched (apart from 6000mile oil changes and checks). I really cant be arsed with snapping a plug off or xthreading it!
Also I'm sure Ive heard you need a 14mm socket head for the plugs, is this true?
Many thanks in advance, its always the simple jobs that turn into a bloody nightmare, while the more complex ones you worry about go according to plan!!!
The plugs are called 10mm or 14mm, this does not relate to the size of socket to be used, you have to ask for a 14mm spark plug socket, a socket to remove a 14mm plug [actual size is about 19mm] or a 10mm spark plug socket for 10mm plugs
The plugs should not be cleaned, wire brushed as this will kill them, simply replace them, they should be pre gapped and ready to go, do not wind them in tightly, a low poundage should be used.
The best way to do the job is to buy a spark plug socket to go with your socket set, a little extra money but more than worth it is the magnetic plug socket, this stops the problem of leaving the rubber insert from the socket on the plug when fitted in the head, a sod to retrieve.
Even standard fit NGK plugs will do a great job and last a long time.
The plugs should not be cleaned, wire brushed as this will kill them, simply replace them, they should be pre gapped and ready to go, do not wind them in tightly, a low poundage should be used.
The best way to do the job is to buy a spark plug socket to go with your socket set, a little extra money but more than worth it is the magnetic plug socket, this stops the problem of leaving the rubber insert from the socket on the plug when fitted in the head, a sod to retrieve.
Even standard fit NGK plugs will do a great job and last a long time.
You should remove the plugs to check them annually whether you intend to replace them or not. If you leave them in too long they will seize onto the threads and when you eventually try to remove them they will remove the thread from the head.
CaptainSlow said:
Just thinking about changing mine. I can't even get my plug socket in the cam cover hole!
You are probably using the wrong socket then. A standard 14mm spark plug socket should fit easily.You only need something like this for home use
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/DRAPER-12243-LONG-REACH-SPAR...
M-m
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/DRAPER-12243-LONG-REACH-SPAR...
M-m
I use a regular plug socket and extender bar to get down to the plugs to undo etc. Then I just use a piece of garden hose to extract the plug (and put the new one back in). The hose is also handy for engaging the new plug in the thread as it makes it easier to ensure you don't cross thread as you can twiddle it by hand. Works a treat and cheap (free!!)
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