Old sparkplug removal

[crazy charlie]

Im going to help a friend out next weekend that has decided to give boating a try.He is going to use his dads boat which has not run in a few years but was winterized properly.I helped him to get running and promised To help change the plugs.Its a 5.0 merc/alpha.Being they have been in there for a while I was planning on stopping by tonight and giving the plugs a spray of PB blaster and letting them sit till the weekend to lessen the chance of breaking any.Any other tips for old plug removal ????? Should a cold or hot motor make any difference in old plug removal??? Charlie

 

[f_inscreenname]

Re: Old sparkplug removal

Do it cold. No reason for burned fingers. A good soak will help. Don't worry about breaking the porcelain part of the plug you just don't want to strip out the threads in the heads. It may seem like pre school for me saying this but make sure you turn them out the right way. I have seen a lot of people snap bolts heads off trying to take them out but the whole time they were tightening them. you should be OK. If you find yourself putting way to much torque on the wrench without them moving, stop and re soak.

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Old sparkplug removal

I have done it a million times before but never on a plug that I wasnt sure would come right out.

 

[jwharan]

Re: Old sparkplug removal

Is changing plugs as simple as removing the cap, and unscrewing the plug? (like a lawnmower?)

 

[murphini]

Re: Old sparkplug removal

I did it for the first time this spring. You may want to read a yoga book or the Kama Sutra before you start to get into the positions you'll need to reach the plugs.<br /><br />Also, my manifolds were in the way so I have to buy a socket with a U-joint at Sears so I could get to the plugs. It was about $8. Probably have them at auto part stores also

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Old sparkplug removal

Actually this one is a breeze to get at Murph.Single 5.7 in a big engine compartment.The only tricky one may be at the alternator.Charlie