Spark Plug Hole Conditioning (Tool)

pcarenthuz · pcarenthuz's Garage

I'm relatively new to the forum. Great stuff and a great community.

I've read a number of threads here on spark plug removal with great interest. Last evening I removed mine from my 3.2 Carrera. A couple were a bit tough but by in large came out relatively easily using the factory tool.

I'm curious whether anyone has ever used a spark plug hole conditioning tool like the ones listed here: http://bgservice.com/docs/brochures/BG-Hole-Conditioning-Tool-20140122.pdf ? Specifically, is there any reason to use something like this?

Thanks,

Pat Arnold

CCM911 · 04-23-2015, 06:07 AM

I'll bet those plugs were in there for a long time. As long as you change them regularly, you should encounter no further issues, therefore negating the need for a plug hole conditioning tool.

5String43 · 04-23-2015, 06:10 AM

I've got a set of those things. The set was given to me. I've never had the need - or, indeed, the nerve - to use this tool. Seems like it would be awfully easy to screw up the threads. At least for me. A better solution, I would think, would be to use a little anti-seize compound on the sparkplug threads. Which is exactly what I do.

DRACO A5OG · DRACO A5OG's Garage

Not to mention possible metal shavings in the engine ???

fanaudical · fanaudical's Garage

Those are useful if you've got a neglected motor that's had plugs in for a long time (resulting in carboned-up threads and lots of junk on the gasket seat). Be very careful if you use something like that on aluminum heads - one cross-threading incident and you need new threads...

Jose_JGC · Jose_JGC's Garage

I see no need for that tool. For the past 24 years I have removed my 1970 911T's plugs about twice a year with no problem. I remove them with the engine cold, use the factory tool, tighten by hand on the tool as many turns as possible then tighten with the tool and lever.
Jose

pcarenthuz · pcarenthuz's Garage

Super wisdom from all. Thanks everyone!

Pat Arnold

wrxnofx · wrxnofx's Garage

I would guess the reason is for the post fallout of something like this:
broken spark plug Carrera 911 1987

Trackrash · Trackrash's Garage

Funny, it used to be that you were supposed to use anti-seize on plugs. And now Porsche says you aren't?

I still believe a small amount on new plugs is a good idea.