Is anyone using a special socket size to get the spark plugs out? I've tried about 3 or 4 different sized spark plug sockets to get at mine and it seems as the exhaust manifolds are getting in the way so i can't get the socket to go on the plug (socket is on an angle).
What engine are you working on? Is it a Ford? Ford Engines require a special tool to go over the spark plug so you can use a wrench which I believe is a 9/16 to get it off. You can get the tool from Snap-On. PCM Ford engines have different shaped exhaust manifolds so the plugs are easy to get out. If you are having trouble on a PCM ford Engine, use a 5/8 wrench instead of the socket. All Chevy engines you should be able to get out with a 5/8 socket with an extension.
Your Mercruiser does have some exhaust manifold issues that make it real tough with a generic plug socket...as other have said, a thin wall snap on deep socket, or take a grinder wheel to your Craftsman socket and lose some of the wall thickness.
I think you want this one. I had a Merc and this worked for me. The wall thickness is less on this and allows it to get into the plug. The universal help get the ratchet and extension in position to turn.
well i finally took another crack at getting the plugs out last night and realized that the sockets that i had where not deep enough. I did find the spark plug too that came with my street bike and just pushed the rubber piece further up the socket to give more room for the plug to sit in the socket. worked like a charm. the socket from my street bike is also much thinner than the other sockets i was trying to use. engine all fogged and ready for winter.
now if only the snow would fall as the hill open in a couple weeks here!
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