Just a hint for any noobies!
 

I decided to change my spark plugs today. I was a bit nervous, as I had searched through all of the discussions of what tool(s) to use, and saw quite a bit of disagreement.

I was able to change all 6 plugs in under 30 minutes using this combo...
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1366761537.jpg

A simple 13/16 spark plug socket, a knuckle, and a short extension.

A thought to keep in mind, though, is the fact that I have backdated heat, which made the job easier.

Just a tip for anybody afraid to tackle this!


BTW...my 911 seems to like the NGKs I threw in there... :)

Just to add to that tip... I put some electrical tape on the joint to firm it up a bit to help locate the socket onto the plug (removal) and locate the new plug (install) into the threads.

another tip is to take that assembly to a welder and zap it together so it doesn't find a dark hole when your doing #6 at night in the rain

James, I'm glad you said that about welding. I have often thought that the best thing to do was to make a good tool permanent just for doing the plugs on a 911.

Hi all,

The best tool I have found for replacing the plugs is the factory tool found in your tool kit!!

Just a thought! ;)

For sure. If you have to buy a tool to do the plugs, buy the factory tool if you can. It really is quite awesome.

"The best tool I have found for replacing the plugs is the factory tool found in your tool kit!!"

I agree.

+1

I know this is ideal, but I am just trying to show a budget conscious way of doing a spark plug service if one does not have the factory tool.

I can't imagine the factory tool making the process any easier. The set-up I used was an absolute breeze :)

your right, there wrong, i use the exact same thing, love it. I also use a snap-on flex head ratchet, perfect!!

Also try to make sure that the hold on the plug in the socket is looser that the other joints in the Assembly of tools, so it will come out first rather than cause the socket to come adrift from the rest of the tool.

Cheers Richard

I had the problem. After a little bit of super glue, I now have my own permanent Porsche 911 SC Spark Plug Remover.

I didn't need that 4" extension anyway...

Same way I do it, but I have one dedicated with duct tape keeping it attached just in case.

agree with others about the factory tool. I have a couple, they are always perfect

if you must use a extension, use a 3" locking extension, I wouldn't bother with the swivel

They make spark plug sockets with swivel extensions already integrated on them.

Almost like someone somewhere might have come across a similar problem before :p

Oh, some come with a 6 inch extension as well, and some are magnetic instead of having the rubber insert.

So you think that this $15 tool will be able to maneuver in the engine compartment?
The car I'm buying doesn't have the tool kit.

Buy Gear Wrench 13/16" x 6" Magnetic Swivel Spark Plug Socket 80547 at Advance Auto Parts

There's a guy in the classifieds selling a bunch of loose tool kit tools. Has several of the spark plug wrenches.

Yes, looks good. I have been told that I need a 4" extension.

1973 911 T MFI Coupe, Aubergine

Steve

My custom tool... the extension kept pulling off my plug socket (leaving it in the engine) so I decided they needed to be joined permanently. It's about a 3-4" extension. Works beautifully and doesn't require any special pieces.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1378949264.jpg

The plug wrench was missing from my tool kit. I've been using the Gearwrench tool and i'm very happy with it - the right amount of grip on the plug and the right amount of stiffness in the swivel.

I did see Bruce's ad today, I ordered one from him to complete my tool kit. Neve know when you need one away from home.