I cannot fit a normal socket to remove (change) sparkplugs. They were a custom job and there is just not enough clearance to change them all (the middle 2 on each side) the back and front were easy but the middle raise in such a way I can't remove them. If anyone needs pics I can take some

Is there a special wrench or something that might get the job done?

I can't for the life of me get the headers off

 

Try an offset box end wrench

 

I cut off the closed end of a combination wrench and welded it on the closed end of another combination wrench. It takes me all of 20 minutes to change spark plugs now. Granted, I dont have EGR/AIR anymore either.

 

Don't sweat it. He has a valid point, but maybe stepped on the gas a little hard in pointing it out.

Another trick.... ever notice that spark plug sockets have a 6-point fitting on the far end? Guess what that's for. Yep, putting an open end on it to turn it, so you don't have the big ratchet head sticking out the back end of the socket. Might help, might not.

 

I just use a 5/8" wrench to break them loose, and my fingers to twist them out... works just fine for me

 

The easiest way to change the spark plugs with headers? Simple, unbolt and pull each header to the side one at a time and change the spark plugs.

Ive tried all the other methods and theyre either too cumbersome or I ran the risk of damaging/mistorqueing the plug. If you where dilligent with the anti-seize grease when you installed them, it takes about 10 mins to unbolt each header

 

Buy shorty spark plugs.

 

Alot of the shorter plugs have the screw off terminals. I had a real bad experience with boschs with them and after awhile the constant arcing causes deposit formation around the threads of the terminal, blocking current. Eventially they caused arcing in the wires, which eventially destroyed teh wires, ign. module, and coil. Never use anything with those screw on terminals again. A/C Delco all the way. Just my

 

Yeah seriously, almost seems too obvious I guess.

 

You know, I fought with my headers to get plugs loose and I couldn't get a 5/8th wrench in there. Maybe I could get one with an offset end.

But it took me like 10 minutes to unbolt the headers and that is talking a mile a minute to my friend who stopped by.

I bet I could change the plugs compltely in about 30 minutes.

I ran a compression test too while I was doing it, so it took a bit longer. Spent maybe about 4 hours doing various things on the car yesterday. It needed it.

The stealthram now pulls like a freight train up top. Its scary how fast it winds the tach up in 3rd gear.

 

I took the liberty to cleanse this thread of non-tech, personal-attack content. If some of the posts don't seem to follow now, that's why.

To all who were involved with the mud-slinging - be hereby warned that such conduct is in violation of Board rules and will not be tolerated.

Enough said.

Now, back to the topic: Yes, clearance is challenging, but a modified socket makes it easier. I'll try to post a picture of mine this evening.

 

My apologies, I inadvertently deleted the post with the picture of the modified socket. If the member that posted that item would be willing to repost, it would be appreciated.

Again, my apologies (thread editing can also be challenging).

 

Here's a Craftsman plug socket I bought for $4 and cut it shorter, then drilled out the end (where the ratchet goes). May or may not work depending on how much clearance there is between your header tube and spark plug.

 

I have to get to some of mine from the bottom side with a combo wrench . # six is a real pain 1/8 turn at a time I may have to try one of the trix posted above good luck . Flow Tec Junk

 

I bought this socket off of ebay for $9. It was easier to buy one than to modify one of my own. It works great and I could change my plugs in ten minutes with headers.