Stripped Spark Plug --- how to get it out

[alohamonte]

Hi all,

Changing plugs on my 96 RL. One of them is unfortunately stripped... the plug socket just spins on it without bitting. I dont want to break it off... Any suggestions? Should I bring this one in for professional help?

The other 5 came out fine.

Thanks Monte

[seamusnh]

Before going to a pro, try using a gator grip socket. That is one of those large socket wrench sockets with the pins inside so it adapts to any size bolt. They have them at Sears. Item # 00947078000. You'll have to find one big enough for a spark plug.

[turbobore]

If you take the plug out the threads in the head may have been ruined and you won't be able to put a new plug in. I would leave it alone and replace the other ones. If you decide take it out and the threads are damaged be prepared to install a helicoil or have your shop do it. You can Google stripped spark plug threads and see how to instal a helicoil. However, if the car is not running poorly with the one bad plug then leave it alone.

I have an '87 Mazda 626 turbo with one stripped plug and that one plug has been there for many years and the car still runs fine and gives me 30 mpg city.

[IS3_FTW]

This guy I know who has a V8. His dumb ass never changed the plugs, so it ruined that one cylinder. And that half the block had to be replaced. When they tried to get the plug out, it stripped the threads. He had to re-thread the plug hole. Now he has to use a bigger plug, or something to that nature.

Hopefully by now, you have had that problem fixed.

Any updates?

[alohamonte]

i havent touch it. runs strong so i havent given it much effort. But now I have a slight oil leak, looks like it's coming from the rear of the valve cover on the same side as the stripped spark plug (passenger).

i'll likely get the kit (autozone Part Number: 036-1580) that replaces the spark plug tube seals.

i'm going to have a mechanic remove the last plug and replace the gaskets. i use a mobile mechanic that makes house calls.

i also have most of the dash lights out... another mechanic job

i have to say i'm not complaining, for nearly 13 years old this car doesnt give me much trouble.

[alohamonte]

strange... i brought it in to the acura dealer because the washer fluid pump wasnt working... and they replaced the coil pack, spark plugs, oil, and drain plug... FOR FREE... the said it was covered under a service bulletin... lucky me.

[seamusnh]

Wow! The coil packs cost about $85 each! Your lucky day!

[alohamonte]

I should also add that they gave me an estimate of $375 to replace the dash bulbs (1/2 mine are out). Eeeep that's expensive.

[seamusnh]

It is probably all labor. If you are handy, you could take out the instrument panel and replace them yourself. Go to Download PDF PDFTown.com | Free Download PDF and eBook, search on "acura RL" and download the technical manual.