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Re: [T3] cross threaded spark plugs


On 3 Oct 2001, at 10:17, veedub@apartment101.com wrote:

> How in the heck do you guys manage to change the spark plugs without
> dropping the engine.  It took my two hours!!! That's rediculous. 
> Anyway, I had trouble getting the plug into #4, and I think I may have
> cross threaded it.  Is there anyway to tell?  She started right up,
> but there seems to be a slight miss.  I took her for a ride and she
> ran okay, but still acting a little bit funny.

It takes some getting used to. Use a spark plug socket and an 
extension. ALWAYS start the plugs by hand, without the ratchet. I 
think you've got the cyl numbers mixed up, #2 & 4 are the easy  
rear ones (rear is rear.) I and 3 are harder. Note that 1 & 2 are 
parallel and 3 & 4 are also parallel. You have the right angle when 
the extension comes right out the middle of the spark plug opening.

As a beginner it may help to just do one plug at a time. That way if 
you become unsure of the angle, you can put the socket on the 
plug that is still installed next door and re-check the angle, then go 
back to the one you're trying to put in.

BTW, if you have the tool set that came with the car, the SP 
wrench in this kit is really IDEAL for this. It holds the plug, is just 
long enough, and is large enough in diameter that you can get 
enough grip to turn in the plug if you have the angle right but not 
enough to damage the threads if you don't.

The last thing you want to try at this point is to run a tap in there. If 
you determine that it needs to be done, leave it to someone who is 
more clear on what the correct angle is.

-
Jim Adney
jadney@vwtype3.org
Madison, WI 53711-3054
USA

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