Hello,

I'm trying to put in a spark plug on my 98' 4.6 F-150 that popped out... should it easily thread? I put it down in the cyllinder with an extension and it doesnt seem to grab at all.. just keeps spinning? Is there technique to get it to thread?

I don't think the thread is bad because when I pull spark plug out theres no shavings on it and it looks clean.

I have a 3" spark plug socket on a 6" extension or so.. could this be a prob? Do I need a specific one?


Story: Plug popped on out the road.. threads on it appear to be fine.. bought a new one and want to put in.


Thanks
anx

 

Are you saying the plug popped out while you were driving?

 

They should go in pretty easily. All mine grabbed right away and went int. Make sure you're turning it to the right... Don't laugh... I thought I cross threaded once when I was just turning and turning but then I realized I was turning it to the left...

If it popped out when you were driving though, then you might have more serious problems. Have you ever had the plugs changed at all?

 

Yes, I just had them changed about 15,000 miles ago.


Plug aint grabbing.. what next?

To use the time-sert does the head need to be removed?


Thanks
anx

 

They should go in very easily. I've done plug jobs on my 4.6 three times now and they screw in and out very easily. Remember, however, the passenger side bank plugs tilt slightly to the rear; the driver's side to the front. You should be able to turn the plug in with your fingers on the end of the socket extension.

 

I saw your other post, sounds like I would find another mechanic. The cylinder you are messing with is actually #4 and it sounds like you have wallowed out the first threads and yes, it's all too common. First off, if you have never done the following, I would recommend you take it somewhere and have them do the following. You will need to purchase a thread chaser. Just squirt some oil on it and start the thread. Only give it a couple of turns, take it out, re-oil it and a go a little farther. Do this till you goes all the way in. When you do install the new plug make sure it's fresh and throw the one you are working with in the garbage, otherwise you are looking at some head repairs.

 

Here's some info on the Time-serts.

It looks like it would be alot easier if the block were not obstucted.

But (IIRC you are working on the #4 plug) so it probably would be necessary to lift the cab off the frame for full access to the engine block (or something similar)...but these are my unexperienced thoughts on this.



In any case it definitely sounds like the threads on the block are stripped, and if I were you I would also want to check for metal shavings in places they shouldnt be.

Edit:
Here is another thread about this problem (sadly its somewhat common...more common than it should be anyway).
https://www.f150online.com/forums/sh...ighlight=blown