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Spark Plugs Need a lil Help
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dbtcj07
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Joined: July 08, 2009
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PostPosted: Wed Sep 09, 2009 10:45 pm    Post subject: Spark Plugs Need a lil Help Reply with quote

Alright so i have a 64 and a 67 beetle. I usually take it in and pay some1 to do this but one of the reason i bought a bug was to learn how to do things myself. Lately i have been doing the work my self and its about time i change the spark plugs. So i was looking at my engine i noticed that in order to be able to remove the spark plugs i believe i have to remove the 2 headers that are connected to the carburetor and connect to the exhaust.
If i am wrong i would like to know what is the proper way to do this and if i need certain tools besides the right size socket.
The other question i have is if i do have to remove the headers, what the correct way of doing this.
Any advice helps thx
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mkmaxit
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PostPosted: Wed Sep 09, 2009 10:51 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Its a matter of getting the right combination of socket, universal joint, and even different lengths of extensions to get back in there and around the intake manifolds.

Such as:
socket - 3 inch extention - univeral joint - 9inch extention - wratchet

Remember to put a light coat of anti-seize on new spark plug threads so alot easy to take out next time!

Something a little different -------
If you use a hole saw and bore a hole inside of fender well its so much easier to go straight into plug and get them out then. basically jack rear of car up and put on jack stands with wheels off is sometimes tons easier going through a hole to get to plugs than fidling with extensions and universal joints.
If you find a good sized body panel plugs you can put these in the holes and spray a little rubberized undercoating on them after replacement back into hole after you changed plugs will seal them up and keeps things looking nice. Make sure you pick what size body plug first and then match diameter of hole saw to match. I prefer the rubber body plugs over plastic ones cause of exhaust heat.
Sure makes things easy!
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Cusser
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PostPosted: Thu Sep 10, 2009 6:59 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

I did have an access hole on my sedan that had an AC compressor blocking two plugs.

However, in your case, with the dual-port manifold on yours, I'd suggest what I've done: take a standard spark plug socket and grind it down narrower for more clearance. I use that and either a 3" extension or a 3" extension PLUS a 1.5" extension, depending on which fits best for which plug number. I especially like the magnetic spark plug socket, but I bought mine decades ago, don't remember the brand (plus the grinding took the name off !!!). I've seen bench grinders as low as $20, just wear eye protection ALWAYS when using it.
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bill may
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PostPosted: Thu Sep 10, 2009 7:45 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

i use a stock vw spark plug /lug bolt socket that came in the original tool kit. Cool
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pantone149
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PostPosted: Thu Sep 10, 2009 1:25 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Those things you call "headers" are not headers but intake manifolds. I'd not touch them because that will just cause more work. Those things you call "exhausts" are the cylinder heads (the intake manifolds bolt directly to the cylinder heads). Crawl under the motor and you'll see the muffler that is connected to the exhaust manifolds, which also bolt to the cylinder heads. Fuel and air enter the engine by the intake manifold and exit by the exhaust. In humans we use the same manifold for intake and exhaust, except when eating lots of burritos. Take a trip to Sears and get yourself a nice socket set, extensions, universals, and a spark plug socket (make sure to get the proper socket size needed). I'll bet some smart person once said something to the effect "the right tools make the job". It was not me. Good luck. There is some silly intrinsic reward to doing it yourself.
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mtb7001
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PostPosted: Thu Sep 10, 2009 4:45 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

get yourself a couple of repair manuals, Muirs Idiots Guide is a good start , http://www.amazon.com/Keep-Volkswagen-Alive-Step-S...mp;sr=1-12 work your way up to a Bentley manual.
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