Spark plug intake clearance?

[my69opelgt]

So i ran a search for "spark plug" and just got way too many results, then tried to narrow it to "broken" and couldnt find any.

 

Here is my problem: The sparkplug in the driverside rear is too close to the intake to get the socket on it. i tried squeezing it on but just ended up breaking the plug. i dont see how anyone got the plug on it before if it is cross threaded. i can get it finger tight but its just too tight for a socket. again this is the plug closest to the disty.

 

any one run into this problem before?:-\

[Jerry DeMoss]

You will most likely need an aditional extension with a swivel(universal) attached to it. They are a bit tricky.

[GeneralDisorder]

I have never had an issue with one - I generally use about a 12" extension bar to weave down through the wires and hoses. If all else fails.... try using the subaru plug socket from the tool kit included with the car

 

GD

[my69opelgt]

i can reach it just fine but the socket wont slip down on it far enough to reach the nut. it fits all the others. maybe if i try puting the socket on before threading it in by hand. ill try that lol

[GeneralDisorder]

Thus my sugestion to use the Subaru tool - it's much thinner. Also I'm sure you could grind (or turn) the socket down or buy a thinner plug socket from a "professional" tool dealer such as snap-on, mac, etc. Cheap sockets are often too thick for this sort of thing.

 

I wouldn't sugest trying it with the socket already on the plug - there just too much risk in damaging the aluminium threads in the head with the steel plug threads.

 

GD

[Turbone]

Sounds like the damage has already been done, by whoever installed the plugs before.

The only cause for this issue is the plug was cross threaded, like you suspected. You will need to replace the plug anyway after breaking it, so get it out anyway you can.

Then you will need a helicoil to repair the threads.

[NorthWet]

I am assuming this is on an EA82 engine? If so, I have had problems with certain spark plug sockets that have had too thick of a wall to fit on the the rightmost plug (as viewed looking end-on at the plugs) on an EA82 head. Using a thinner socket has always worked for me. The thicker sockets, if I can get them on the plug, feel like the plug is seized in the head; proper socket, and things feel normal. As GD suggested, try this first.