So I dropped my socket....
 

So I was changing the plugs in my 75 1.8, when the socket came off -- and rolled further into the engine.

Anyone have any ideas on how to get it out again?

And in case anyone was wondering, yes, I feel like an idiot.

Magnet? I don't know if those magnets for recovering nuts and bolts (the ones with the telescopic handle) are strong enough to lift a sparkplug socket.

May require sheet metal removal.

Mike

Try the magnet. May be a pain to convince it to not stick to the engine tin, the cylinders, etc., but a strong one should be able to get the socket.

--DD

been there done that, magnet. took about 35 patient minutes...

Jack the rear up, and maybe it will roll out.

I used one "of those long skinny things that you push the button to make the claw come out of the end". I don't know the name of the tool but its a great thing to have for a 914. I am always dropping crap in my car and you have to be a contortionist to get some things. But I have been there with the socket. Kind of makes you feel a bit helpless.

Try dropping the brass nipple down the hole into a fresh motor.

Old motor, i would have taken my chances and let it find its own way out.

Coat hanger with a stack of round magnets got my socket out. As for a brass plug nipple, I would go with a shop vac with a fuel hose @ the end. Pete

You'll probably find some extra spark plugs in there too :)

Happened to me too. That was the second near nervous breakdown I had with my '73. First was replacing the rear brake lines ( which btw a 17mm crows foot socket and an 8-10'' extension works great ) . The magnet worked, the hard part was finding the socket first.

Thanks for all the suggestions! I'm off to the parts store to buy the magnet. That definitely ruined my day -- it was a great day, and I had been looking forward to taking the little orange bomber out for a spin!

Ah, well -- off to the store...

Thanks again for the suggestions!

I have only forseen this happening whilst changing the plugs (like a fast forward on a home movie). After "seeing the future" I was very, very careful. This, however, did not keep me from dropping screws, nuts & bolts into the "black hole" of non recovery:rolleyes:

.........b

Leave it there. It's an excellent heat sink...:eek: :eek: :rolleyes:

you obviously need to by the VW spark plug/lug nut tool. ;) can't fall in.

THAT sounds too sexual to touch...:D
and it might hurthttp://www.pelicanparts.com/support/smileys/spankA.gif

.......b