spark plug removal and replace ?

[steviee7]

Got new plugs the other day so I decided to start removing the old ones. Losening them wasn't too hard but I noticed that I kept turning and turning and they felt like the same friction. I mean the first few turns felt like close to the last few turns until they came out. Is this normal? not knowing how old they are. I ended up not taking them out all the way out in fear that the new ones would not go in with ease and the threat of crossthreading. (and the removal was when car was cold)

I'm using what seems to be the Porsche spark plug removal tool. It has a spring and gives a slight swivel. It seems to me that if I use this tool to replace the plugs it feels like I won't be able (by hand) to start the thread. Is it possible to do or should I run to Sears... Who here has ever crossthreaded. Can anyone give me a few tips?

thanks
SE

[Won]

I think it's easier to "wiggle" the Porsche tool and start in the right thread with the spark plug held in by the rubber things in the tool than to use any other kind.

[aknapp]

Being new to 911's, I was a little hesitant changing the plugs. My hands aren't exactly small, and there's not a lot of room to get at some of the plugs. I used the Porsche plug tool to remove and install - I figured Porsche included it in the tool kit for good reason!

I know the feeling you are talking about, with the first few turns feeling like the last few. I changed the plugs, no problem.

My advice would be to put the plug in the tool, insert the combo into the hole, slowly turn the tool by hand as if you were loosening the plug until you feel a "click", stop, then proceed to tighten. You will be able to feel the click using the Porshce plug tool.

This method works with anything threaded - nut, bolt, or spark plug.

Good Luck!

[Gogar]

If you're really worried, take the top valve covers off. You'll be able to see (a little bit) better, and it's educational. If you have a mirror, it also will let you see down in there.

When you're putting them in, if you feel any resistance for very long, stop and start over. It should be obvious when you got it right.

[steviee7]

Thanks guys. I thought about taking the covers of since I was planning on my first valve adjustment. Since they say it's easier to rotate the engine with no plugs. I just don't like the fact that dirt can fall in. My thoughts were... first remove both top covers. take old plugs out. replace with new ones but only tighten a few turns, just enough to know that they are in and threaded but enough to let some air in/out. so that rotaing the engine will be easy(ier)

aknapp: I know that click feeling you described, I guess I wouldn't feel it as much with that tool. I'd like to have a more solid/connected feel when doing that.

Thanks again
Steve

[gpm0414]

I recently did my plugs and valves on my 86, and found that turning the engine with the plugs in was not difficult. And it keeps the dirt out of the engine! I used a ratchet and the proper socket, just remember only turn the crank clockwise, NEVER reverse direction if you go past a mark.

[Rick V]

An easy trick to start your plugs is to get a piece of rubber hose hat slips firmly over the plug. Use the hose to twist the plug, if you crossthread the plug you won't be able to turn it you will only twist the hose. Then tighten with a plug socket

[wswilburn]

When you are through installing the plugs, make sure the rubber insert is still with the tool and not left on a plug. Don't ask me why I know this.