The dreaded #8 plug, improved

[Hib Halverson]

Originally Posted by scottfab

Hib
lots of mumbo jumbo about so-called "code" can be made simple about posting a pic.
Go to your pic here on the forum and look a the field under it
called "BB code". Just copy and paste that code into your text where you want the pic to be. All done.

Ahhh, come-on "Scottfab"--you know I'm just a content guy. Is that "code" as in "Morse Code" or "ECM code"?

I agree with your assessment of over complicating the deal with #8
The fewer the pieces used the better feel you have for torque I say.
I use even fewer tools than you by one. I put the ratchet directly on
the extension, no elbow at all.
That is, one plug scocket (w/tape to secure it because i don't trust the socket rubber piece), one 1" extension, one 3" extension, one ratchet.
Insert one at a time and hold it while attaching the next part.
On removal I might put a short pipe on the end of the ratchet.

I too have a pretty good feel for torque on plugs. Occasionally I'll pull out a torque wrench to verify my "feel"
I'm usually within 2lb on anything <20lb.

Let me make sure I understand...

...you can usually get with in 2-ft/lbs. when the spec is less then 20-ft/lbs but--you have to put a pipe on the end of a ratchet to break the plugs loose.

What am I missing?

[scottfab]

Originally Posted by Hib Halverson

Let me make sure I understand...

...you can usually get with in 2-ft/lbs. when the spec is less then 20-ft/lbs but--you have to put a pipe on the end of a ratchet to break the plugs loose.

What am I missing?

When plugs sit unmolested for 5yrs they can bind up a bit.
I use anti-seize but VERY sparingly.
I'd rather they be a bit tight than get too much and have the
cats suffer.
yah, and also #8 is in a location that's hard to get muscle onto.

[USAFPILOT]

I just remove the engine to change the plugs.

[Blue Flame Restorations]

[Torchred96]

Much ado about nothing..is in the eye of the be-holder of the right tools, for sure.

I think the basic issue as the OP point alludes to is that many jobs go easier when you have the right tools, but when you do not, you have to make do.

I'm thinking of all the jobs that the factory does without a sweat that we have complicated processes for...Timing the cams comes to mind. I couldn't tell you how THEY do it, but it probably doesn't involve a piston stop, dial gauge or other special tools I have to plug into the crank etc or cam... Well, you get the point.

[Blownrunner]

There are four (five?) seven MM screws and two plugs on the cover inboard of the A/C evaporator. Just remove them and you will have enough room to not only remove the #8 plug, but the whole cam cover. Takes me five minutes to remove. You guys have fun with your funky ratchets and extensions, I will remove the access cover.

[Paul Workman]

Originally Posted by USAFPILOT

I just remove the engine to change the plugs.

Ah! You must have had an LT1 car at some time!! I swear...sometimes I'd like to find the person(s) that make chit so hard to get and give 'em $10 worth of nickle-sized knots n bruises!!

[Schrade]

It DOES look easier than LT1 #8??? I crawled over top of the motor from the driver's side, to lock it in...

A laser guided smart wrench couldn't do it any better.

I just remove the engine to change the plugs.

If you ever did plugs on a GM transverse 3.4, you have to ROLL it forward, and brace it, for the back 3.

And GMC S vehicle 4.3 #3 ain't a picnic either - smoke & mirrors, seance, etc. WITHstanding............

[XfireZ51]

Agree w Hib on this. I use a 5/8" deep with 3 U joints attached. That snakes it into the plug well. Then a 1/2" drive breaker bar. Once loosened, I can finger turn plug. Once undone, put a telescoping magnet and pull plug out.
To install, I can put plug into rubber hose to screw it in, then reverse the removal process for final torquing. BTW, I use a thin film of oil on the thread to eliminate seizing of plug.

[alwayscode390]

HAHAH awesome techniques guys ... this thread will come in handy when I attempt my first #8 plug swap. Thanks for the pics and instructions ---