tune up problems
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 444
Likes: 0
From: Atascocita TX
tune up problems
i was trying to give the vette a tune up before i tried to start it (fist time in 14 years) and i can't seem to get the spark plugs out. can you guys give me some pointers on how to get it out? they seem to be rusted in and i can barly get to them, much less be able to put any torque on the wrench. any suggestions are greatly app. TIA :confused:
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 2,340
Likes: 2
From: Moro IL
Re: tune up problems (ry)
Sometimes it helps if you can get a hold of a cheater pipe, in other words a strong piece of pipe that will fit over the rachet handle for some more leverage.
:cheers:
Pat Kunz
:cheers:
Pat Kunz
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 444
Likes: 0
From: Atascocita TX
Re: tune up problems (73 LS-4)
Sometimes it helps if you can get a hold of a cheater pipe, in other words a strong piece of pipe that will fit over the rachet handle for some more leverage.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 444
Likes: 0
From: Atascocita TX
Re: tune up problems (Bullyj)
If you have the time spray WD-40 around the base of the spark plugs let sit for several hours and repeat several times.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 2,310
Likes: 1
Re: tune up problems (ry)
You may want to check out this thread http://forums.corvetteforum.com/zerothread?id=413467
Also, if you can get the car up on jack stands or ramps, you may get a better angle at the plugs.
A couple of swivels & extensions wouldn't hurt either.
Good Luck.
Also, if you can get the car up on jack stands or ramps, you may get a better angle at the plugs.
A couple of swivels & extensions wouldn't hurt either.
Good Luck.
Safety Car
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 4,004
Likes: 2
From: Severna Park Md
Re: tune up problems (jerryp58)
You know how the plug socket has a hex end on it near the end where the rachet hooks in? I found that using an offset box end wrench on there instead of the rachet works good sometimes.
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Pro
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 726
Likes: 0
From: Petaluma CA
Re: tune up problems (ry)
I use a product called "blaster" that seems to free up rusty stuff better than anything I have found. From NAPA. And getting under is good for some plugs. Years ago I even cut a hole thru wheel well for plug access...
good luck !!
good luck !!
Pro
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 654
Likes: 0
From: Now Frozen in Michigan
Re: tune up problems (ry)
I'll bet that your plugs have the tapered seat design. That gives more contact surface to the head, it also allows more area for corrosion.
As posted above, don't use a 12 pt socket, as you'll waste it. Get an adapter and step up to 1/2" breaker bar. This will give longer leverage and allow you to work it above the head area. I'd use some heavy gloves, and 'rap' the bar with one hand, while holding the breaker steady with the other. Try to 'shock' it loose by applying force in both directions (tight and loose). If they're really tough, and refuse to budge, get out the rubber mallet and repeat the above using the mallet to apply force.
I'd also use a different penetrating oil like the PB mentioned above. Soak 'em real good, and apply it several times. Heat helps alot in removing rusty fasteners. So if you can start it and warm it up, this would help a bit.
Good Luck -Rod :chevy
As posted above, don't use a 12 pt socket, as you'll waste it. Get an adapter and step up to 1/2" breaker bar. This will give longer leverage and allow you to work it above the head area. I'd use some heavy gloves, and 'rap' the bar with one hand, while holding the breaker steady with the other. Try to 'shock' it loose by applying force in both directions (tight and loose). If they're really tough, and refuse to budge, get out the rubber mallet and repeat the above using the mallet to apply force.
I'd also use a different penetrating oil like the PB mentioned above. Soak 'em real good, and apply it several times. Heat helps alot in removing rusty fasteners. So if you can start it and warm it up, this would help a bit.
Good Luck -Rod :chevy
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 2,668
Likes: 43
From: Eastern US XX
Re: tune up problems (ry)
Run it FIRST - before you put the new ones in!!! You won't hurt anything by starting and running it till it's up to operating temp with the old plugs plus this will burn old crap out (so you won't muck up your new plugs) and the heat (expansion and contraction) will probably disturb the rust enough so you can get them out easier. Spray a little WD or Blaster or Liquid Wrench on the plugs again as they cool down.