Page 1 of 2

removing spark plugs.

Posted: Sun Nov 15, 2020 8:01 am
by wschneid
I have an 86 32' FB sedan with the twin Chrysler 318's as usual. I recently got the boat and want to check the spark plugs. I am having a lot of trouble with removing the spark plug wires from the spark plugs. I'm afaid of breaking somethings. Is there any secret to getting these wires off? I have removed spark plugs off of many auto engines and never had this much resistance.

Bill Schneider

Re: removing spark plugs.

Posted: Sun Nov 15, 2020 11:54 am
by liquidplummer
Try giving the plug wires a twist at the plug boot to break the seal. When reinstalling use some dielectric grease on the plugs to make it easier to remove in the future.

Re: removing spark plugs.

Posted: Mon Nov 16, 2020 12:15 pm
by wschneid
Thanks, I'll try it.

Re: removing spark plugs.

Posted: Mon Nov 16, 2020 1:45 pm
by ddependo
They make a spark plug wire puller "cheap" . Try that.
Wayne

Re: removing spark plugs.

Posted: Tue Nov 17, 2020 7:11 am
by Fastjeff
If you had that much trouble, I'd suggest replacing the wires as well. They might be damaged.

Jeff

Re: removing spark plugs.

Posted: Tue Nov 17, 2020 8:33 am
by bcassedy
Jeff,

Back on the old site you talked about replacing wires with a GM set (extra long?)so that routing wasn't a major issue (routing - I'm not sure...). Could you detail that again. I'm sure others would benefit from any and all info you could provide.

Thx,
Bill

Re: removing spark plugs.

Posted: Tue Nov 17, 2020 9:29 am
by Fastjeff
I used wires for a big block Chevy. You need to take an existing wire with you to your parts store to be sure you get the same type connectors on each end.

Routing them around (instead of through) those super close manifolds reduces errors and misfiring.

Good luck!

Jeff

Re: removing spark plugs.

Posted: Fri Dec 11, 2020 3:25 pm
by wschneid
Okay, I bought a spark plug wire puller and it worked fine. Now the two sockets I have used on automobiles won't fit. I have the std. Chrysler 318, 240 HP engines. What type of spark plug socket have you guys used to remove the plugs?

Bill Schneider

Re: removing spark plugs.

Posted: Fri Dec 11, 2020 6:45 pm
by javalin390
Up until the time that Ford introduced the 4.6 L in the Crown Vic, all domestic spark plugs used a 5/8" socket or 13/16". Small two cycle engines may have used odd-ball sizes, but all domestic big engines used these sizes. If you go buy a set, make sure they are for spark plugs, as a good set will have a foam rubber insert, to protect the porcelain part from being cracked, while tightening the plug. Note of caution: the 5/8 plugs seal by the machined bevel at the seat of the threads, where-as the 13/16 ones have a little stainless steel gasket/washer for the threads. Washer HAS to be installed or the plug won't stay tight and possibly blow out the head. Mike sure not to drop the little washer in the bilge too, or it may get sucked into your bilge pump !

Re: removing spark plugs.

Posted: Sat Dec 12, 2020 10:29 am
by wschneid
One more thing. What spark plug do you guys use on the Chrysler 318 engine?

Bill Schneider