Ok, so last week I did a full 60k maintenance on my truck. I changed fuel filter, oil/filer, trans fluid/filter, front dif fluid, rear dif fluid, and transfer case fluid. I also wanted to change my spark plugs. I first try and use a normal spark plug tool...5/8 too big. So i get a 9/16 sp socket from autozone. (I wouldn't recommend it). My first spark plug in the first cylinder broke. So, I called Matco and get the spark plug removal tool. $103 and the 9/16 Ford SP Socket $26. From there on out I only broke two more spark plugs.
Pictures:

Matco Ford Spark Plug Socket 9/16




Matco Removal Tool




Spark Plugs

 

Also, I found that if the spark plug doesn't make noise when its coming out, its broken. At least on my truck anyway.

 

I'm gonna have to hire you when its time for mine to be replaced!....

 

Lol, sounds good. But you look like your a little away from Chicago.

 

Did you follow the TSB and back the plugs out about 1/4 turn then fill the plug wells above the hex with a good penetrating spray?

 

Yup, sure did. And Still broke 3. Total time of removal and installation with 3 broken plugs was 2 hrs. Not too bad.

 

Wow! Nice job!! I'm looking to do plugs pretty soon also as my truck just rolled 78,000. I'm close to the Chi and would like some expierenced help when I do this. I'll buy the booze!

 

Maybe a dumb question...but how do you get them out once broken?

 

I hope you plan on replacing them with a one piece plug.

 

been there done that!!! I made my own removal tool for $2.86..

 

Well, You slide the silver tube into the Spark Plug cylinder, over the broken spark plug peice. Then you take the top bolt/shaft and reverse thread it into the broken peice. Then you spin the nut down so it starts to pull the broken peice out. Once you do the first one, its easy.

No offence, but I would rather do it with the right tools and not mess anything up. Especially in the head, I dont reallty feel like pulling everything apart to fix it.

 

Which Matco set is that? FSP100 or BPR65?

Plus, what spark plugs are recommended?

 

good information here, what plug did brand/model did you put back in?

 

whoops double post

 

Will that set from Matco dig the broken porcelain out?

I have one from Snap-on with a really long tap that works great for getting the ground shield out, but I'm still looking for alternatives other than the lame *** Ford setup to get the porcelain out.