Sparkplug socket removal

[CantKillaCam]

I have a spark plug socket lodged over the spark plug in a 4 cyl '98. The socket was too short for the plug so the nipple extends through the hole for the 3/8s drive. The socket does not seem to be binding. Mag retreiver can't make contact, ditto w/a grabber. I de-magnitized one retreiver grinding it too fit the space between the tube wall and nipple. Does anyone know if removal of the valve cover will allow access and removal of the spark plug tube. I know, it was a oh #*&# moment and I couldn't believe my eyes.

[Mike Gerber]

"Does anyone know if removal of the valve cover will allow access and removal of the spark plug tube."

Yes it will. You can unscrew the spark plug tube from the head with some channel locks, after the valve cover has been removed. You will then need some type of sealent to rescrew the spark plug tube back in to the head.

Mike

[JohnGD]

Maybe try some duct tape wrapped securely on an extension or screwdriver with some sticky side down. If this works you won't have to remove the valve cover and tube.

I'd invest in a Craftsman spark plug socket. That's what I use and it's better than a lot of the plug sockets on the market.

[Ahil]

use removal of spark plug tube as a last resort, as if its not re-installed correctly, can cause problems down the track.

[TedL]

Try grabbing with extra extra long needle nose pliers. Cheap at Harbor Freight if you have one nearby.

[Chris Crash]

Stick an extension on it and take the spark plug back out. Then, go buy the right tool and put it back in.

[TedL]

Originally Posted by Chris Crash

Stick an extension on it and take the spark plug back out. Then, go buy the right tool and put it back in.

Re-read the post. The top of the plug is sticking through the 3/8 drive opening, preventing him from doing what you suggest.

[ajkalian]

Here's what I'd try. I think the pic on the left is what he is talking about. Sorry I don't have a spare spark plug, so I just substituted a long bolt, but you get the idea.

I'd get some foam double sided sticky tape. You can get it most anywhere. It comes in two flavors. One is real thin like scotch tape, but the one you want is thicker, and has a foam layer between the sticky parts.

Get a spare socket about the same diameter as the spark plug socket. Then cut a couple of pieces as shown in the center pic, and stick the foam tape to the spare socket. Then drop the spare socket with the tape on it, onto the spark plug socket that is stuck in the hole. If the stuck socket isn't too oily, you should be able to get it out. You might have to try a couple of times to get it, but the tape is pretty strong, and you might be able to get it on the first try.

Let us know if it works.





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[CantKillaCam]

Solution found: superglue on the end of a wooden dowel. After removal I found a 3" metal connector from the spark plug wire still attached to the plug, it had fused to there. I removed that with a hemostat. The outside of the plastic plug connector was white. I believe I found the source of the miss I inquired about in a previous post.
Thank you all for your help, it's what makes this forum great.