308 rear plug change?

No.

I've found a swivel socket spark plug that's pretty good. Proto IIRC.

The secret is to not lock the socket on to the ratchet extension, then once the new plug is in I've fabricated a little wire hook to go down the well and "pop" the socket off the plug! HTH

you know they put those plugs in before the engine was put in the car!!

Gap at .28.

 

I use multiple extensions. Feed in the plug socket with a short extension. Then insert another extension and rachet. If a swivel is involved in the equation, it can make life a bit easier, but not necessary. I can do this in only slightly more time than it takes me to do the rears. Easy after you've done it 2 or 3 times. The trick is in finding the right extensions.

 

I use just enough extension to go beyond the valve cover, and a stubby ratchet handle so it's easier to move around.

Also- blow some air in the hole before you remove the plug- just to minimize the amound of crud falling into the engine.

 

I use the spark plug socket that came with the tool kit. It has a swivel. Since I have a GTSi, I remove the top, and (after protecting the seats and the area above the rear window), I stand on the seats and change the plugs leaning over the rear window.

 

The factory wrench works very well. However, I'm totally and completely paranoid about stripping threads in a very expensive cyl head. So I use a torque wrench, which won't work in conjunction with the factory unit.

 

Careful with this method!!! I did this and covered the top with a blanket, resting my elbows caused small dents in the very thing metal on the roof. I ended up going to the Dent Wizard, to have them all removed. Fortunately he made a good deal...about $75 for all 6 or 7 of them.

Agree, easiest to use the factory tool. Alternately a plug socket, with a "knuckle" fitting, then an extension will work well too.

 

You guys have it all wrong!

The easy way is to first, remove the engine from the car............oh, nevermind....

 

Get a small step stool put it on the side of the car then reach through the hole just to the right of the trunk spoiler. After you do two plugs switch sides with the stool. It gave me access no problem. I was going to take the spoiler off for more room but I didnt have to.

 

Another trick is to climb into the trunk and reach over the plenum for access.

Re: wrenches, the stock tool kit wrench works the best imo. I went nuts trying to find the right sized extensions myself. I use the tool kit wrench with a 14mm socket/wrench for turning.

 

I heard of people removing the engine lid, and lay a blanket on the trunk, lay a piece of plywood over the engine, and work on the plugs and the valve adjustments in the lying down position on the plywood.

 

I think someone here is missing a golden opportunity for a funny pic thread.