i feel like an idiot as I dropped the engine and changed the clutch... but I cant seem to change the plugs.
I installed the new plug and I cant get the socket off the plug... am I an idiot? common issue? what is the trick?
its an 83 SC? will I need to remove the valve cover to get it out?

 

I so had this problem. I went through 5 or 6 sockets before I found the right one. Use the one that came with the car. It's up front under the carpet inside the front bumper area. If you don't have one it's time to get it. That is the only one that has a thin wall. Something about the angle. Ask Pete how bad I cried.

 

You can get an extension back into the socket right? I put duct tape in a layer or two on the tip of the extension so it had more friction than the socket to the plug. Didn't know to try the socket in the toolkit.

 

Same here, my socket would not come out for cylinder #1.

You can try to grind the wall of your socket a bit (lower part), it worked for me, it works perfectly now.

 

I did get them out by taking the new plug back out. I have tried the only three sockets i have and when i put the plug in... i cant get the socket out. One is a magnetic type with no rubber. Damn. and my tool kit is missing this piece. Ill grind or look for a used tool from a tool kit as I cant do this again. Thanks all for the pointers. I was hoping it wasnt me! thanks

 

There is a Hazet magnetic socket that is supposedly like buttah on the 911.

I think you should be able to the the toolkit socket used at a good price.

 

Actually, your Porsche tool kit has wonderful socket that is flexible with a spring and works very well.
I tried tranditional tools and wasted hours. I lost one plug somewhere in there never to be found again...I guess I will find it when I start taking things apart to do a valve adjustment.
abe

 

just duct tape the socket to the short extension you are using .....

done....

 

Most sockets that fit the plugs are too thick at the base and get caught on the head area around the plug. I ground down the outside of the socket until it fits over the plug and into the head cavity. If it still feels like it is dragging, I remove it and grind a little more. Of course, the correct remedy is to use the factory plug wrench that comes in the tool kit....if you have one.

 

Thanks all. I have a factory tool on order.

 

I have found that dielectric grease on the plug helps prevent it from sticking.

Also, I am apparently the only person on this board that hates the factory tool for this.

 

I have the magnetic socket and it works great. The biggest problem i had was the spark plugs were seized in the spark plug holes. I had to loosen, then tighten, loosen then tighten and loosen again until they came out. I dont think i could have done it without having the engine out for oil leak repairs. Hopefully i will never have that problem again.

 

I've had this problem also. Now, whenever I install a plug, I push it into the rubber lined socket only slightly (enough to make contact with the 6 points). Once I thread the plug in a turn or two, I pull the socket off and REMOVE the rubber liner with a small screwdriver...put it back on the plug carefully and
snug it up. It comes off easily since there's no rubber at that point.

 

some people start the plug with a piece of rubber hose stuck on the end of a rod or something else.

Does anyone have any information on the Hazet magnetic socket? I've been trying to find it but can't for some reason.

Pete was recommending lithium grease on the spark plug threads. I haven't tried it yet.

 

i don't hate it, I just hate having to pop the hood and dig it out everytime.