[s-cars] spark plug removal problems

[Peter Schulz]

Steve:

Had a similar issue when I purchased my red 
90q20v that had sat for a full year ( 7a engine)
I wanted to replace the plugs before driving it 
home, was only able to get # 1 and 5 out, of course they were the wrong plug.
#s 2-4 didn't want to come out,  so I drove the 
car home on 4 running cylinders only ( after 
having disconnected the fuel injector lead to the dead cylinder.)

I soaked the sparkplug gallies with penetrating 
fluid over the course of a few days, then started 
the reluctant engine and let it get hot.
Then gingerly removed the #2-4 plugs ( wrong type and of course totally fouled)

So -lots of penetrating fluid, heat,. and a soft 
touch ( knowing when to stop when the plug thread is binding)
(I guess patience is key :-)


-Peter


At 09:49 PM 4/22/2009 -0500, Steve Marinello wrote:
>Okay, I admit it.  I let someone change my plugs ONCE in all the years I’ve
>owned this car.  I have been bit.
>
>
>
>#5 was gooey wet and loose; #1 released and came out just fine and was a bit
>dirty, but that’s it.
>
>
>
>#’s 2,3 &4; SH*T!
>
>
>
>#4 was pretty tight, but released and came out ½ a turn, and then bound up.
>Bound up going back in with less than an 1/8 of a turn.
>
>#3 was not as tight, came out and did the same thing.
>
>#2 came out easier, probably a full turn plus before binding.
>
>
>
>The engine has cooled, but is still warm enough so that I got a bit warm in
>that time standing over it, but it’s also in a closed garage and Spring is
>already turning to Summer in Houston.  I figure to let it sit overnight and
>see what happens.  Any advice for penetrants or lubes while it sits.  I’m
>not in the mood to have to helicoil these freakin’ things and I don’t want
>to have to pay someone else to do it.
>
>
>
>By the way, I’ve been old school when I’ve changed them
usually putting a
>dab of motor oil on the threads, as opposed to the current de rigeur of
>anti-seize.
>
>
>
>Ideas?!  Got to be plenty of BTDT out there.
>
>
>
>Thanks,
>
>
>Steve
>
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-Peter Schulz
Chelmsford Ma, USA
http://www.naaclub.org/

1995.5 S6 Avant Emerald/Ecru
1995.5 S6 Avant Silver/Platinum
1991 90 20v Q Red
1991 CQ silver  (eS2 recipient)