TheSamba.com :: View topic - Any tips for getting to the #2 spark plug?

Thu Oct 30, 2014 3:55 pm

This is my first time changing the plugs and I thought it was going to be a piece of cake. #1 plug was changed with no problems so I moves on to the #2 plug. I can't even see it! I stuck my finger under the tin and it feels like it's located more towards to front of the bus in relation to the hole in the tin.

Even if I'm able to get a plug socket on it and remove the plug I don't know how the hell I'm going to get the new plug back in and not mess up the threads.

So any advice?

77 type iv stock fi

I tried the search but it's not working right now nor did the google search for some reason.

Thu Oct 30, 2014 3:57 pm

Patience. And a spark plug socket so the plug doesn't slip out.

Thu Oct 30, 2014 4:04 pm

So it's just a matter of sticking the socket in and hoping for the best?

Thu Oct 30, 2014 4:11 pm

Try various length extension if you are using a ratchet wrench. I cannot remember whether I use the 3 inch or 6 inch. And be sure you are using a spark plug socket.

Thu Oct 30, 2014 4:49 pm

You have to use an extension and remember the plug is at an angle. Shine a light into the hole in the tin first so you can get an idea of its orientation. #4 will be exactly the same way.

Thu Oct 30, 2014 4:59 pm

I managed to get it, no skill involved, pure luck;)

Thanks guys!

Thu Oct 30, 2014 5:07 pm

just use a 6 inch extension, get it on the plug and remember the angle,
also I had to fish too many dropped plugs out of the tin one time too many-
I think autozone sells a magnetized 13/16" "powercraft"? socket, so no more
dropped plugs on install!

Thu Oct 30, 2014 5:17 pm

You can use a piece of hose that fits snugly over the porcelain part of the plug to get it started, thread it in as far as you can with the hose. Then pull the hose off and tighten it with the plug socket.

The hose will need to be a bit longer than this.

Thu Oct 30, 2014 5:23 pm

I'm glad I'm not the only one that finds this a PIA :lol:

I usually unclip the air intake to give a couple more inches wiggle room.

Thu Oct 30, 2014 5:40 pm

Mac Tools sells a terrific spark plug tool. Stiff rubber, about 6", about $12, gives you a more deft touch than a plug wrench. Finish with wrench.

I tried a hose piece but could never get it straight, the hose wants to curl. This thing is purpose-designed, so it works great for this and this only.

Thu Oct 30, 2014 6:56 pm

I use the hose on the end of the spark plug for both removing and installing my spark plugs. I also use the hose for spark plug installation on all the cylinders. It reduces the risk of cross threading.

Thu Oct 30, 2014 9:51 pm

Because the plug would fall off without the screw on tip, I just used blue tape around the plug and socket, enough tape to keep it in place but not enough to not allow me to remove the socket.

I used ngk BP6ET and prenco performamax wires from busdepot who seem to think these are better than bosch.

Thu Oct 30, 2014 9:55 pm

These are my old plugs, how do they look?

Thu Oct 30, 2014 10:53 pm

We'd like to see a bit more of the insulator to get a true reading. A view of the base of the threads is helpful to see too.

What kind of condition was the engine last run at right before the plugs were removed? I like to read them immediately after a highway run. Like, pull off the freeway and shut it down, cool off, and pull plugs to read. Don't reinstall into a warm head unless you like to risk stripping threads.

Fri Oct 31, 2014 12:02 am

The bus was running great, a little on the rich side according to the failed smog test:(

Fri Oct 31, 2014 12:04 am

The bus was running great, a little on the rich side according to the failed smog test:(

Fri Oct 31, 2014 8:50 am

Show more of the business end of the plug. Also, if you photograph them on a neutral background, the white reflection won't betray the true hue.

Couldn't resist writing that last part cuzza tha rhyme. :oops:

Fri Oct 31, 2014 8:52 am

Use NGK B5ES for the plugs. They are the equivalent in terms of heat range as the no longer made Bosch W8CC plugs. The NGK's are by far better than the current Bosch offerings.