92 4cyl Camry w/blown spark plug

[testsqa]

I have a 92 4cyl Camry with 275K. Was driving when I heard a loud pop and then the engine started to run very rough and loud - as if I had no muffer. I noticed a lost of power but was able to maintain speed (was on the freeway).

When I open the hood I notice that the one of the spark plug boots was loose. I pulled it up. The spark plug tube was still attached. When I reinserted the spark plug boot it felt like there was no spark plug on the other end.

I then notice a dent in the hood over the area of the spark plug.

Is this something worth fixing? I do not know the condition of the threads or the condition of the wiring harness that was attached to the missing plug.

Should I test the threads by installing a new plug?

[BMR]

Originally Posted by testsqa

Is this something worth fixing? I do not know the condition of the threads or the condition of the wiring harness that was attached to the missing plug.

Should I test the threads by installing a new plug?

Yes, try installing a new plug. It's possible the old one just unthreaded itself and got ejected.

More likely, though, the old plug was loose, and the repeated hammering of the engine compression has stripped the threads out. In that case, it can be repaired by installing a helicoil. Basically, the spark plug bore is cut out, rethreaded (larger), and a steel insert is threaded in. This is best done with the head off, so it's not simple or cheap to do.

[nevada]

Originally Posted by BMR

Yes, try installing a new plug. It's possible the old one just unthreaded itself and got ejected.

More likely, though, the old plug was loose, and the repeated hammering of the engine compression has stripped the threads out. In that case, it can be repaired by installing a helicoil. Basically, the spark plug bore is cut out, rethreaded (larger), and a steel insert is threaded in. This is best done with the head off, so it's not simple or cheap to do.

it can be done while on the engine.
ive done a few.

just make sure the piston is down, and dip the drill bit, and tap into heavy grease. it will catch the shavings. if some tiny shavings get in, they will burn up quickly, and cause no issue.

this is a fairly technical repair, since you are asking this question, i imagine it would be best to take it in and have it done at a qualified shop.

[ajkalian]

if you have to repair the threads in the heads, take a look at this product. It offers much more grip and surface area than a traditional Heli-Coil.

http://www.timesert.com/


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