So I dropped my socket....

[Ray Morgan]

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.

[maf 914]

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

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

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

[norustscott]

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

[chrisreale]

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

[calbrat]

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.

[Conrad W Peden]

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.

[peter carroll]

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

[scg]

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

[John 9:14]

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.

[Ray Morgan]

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!

[Bruce Allert]

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

.........b

[D7N7MASTER]

Leave it there. It's an excellent heat sink...

[jamcleod]

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

[Bruce Allert]

Originally posted by jamcleod
you obviously need to by the spark plug/lug nut tool. can't fall in.

THAT sounds too sexual to touch...
and it might hurt

.......b