Spark plugs frozen in engine. How do I remove?

[ken b.]

Spark plugs in engine for 8 years and 102,000 miles. ( I know, I know. The guy who owned the car before was an idiot) Seem to be frozen in place. Any advice on how to remove them without doing damage to head?

[eRic 02sc2]

8 years and 102,000 miles?! wow. that's gotta be some sort of record. perhaps you could squirt some penetrator into the spark plugs wells and let it soak, then try removing with a spark plug socket. they're only supposed to be in there with 20 ft-lbs of torque.

[andy_95sl2]

bring it to a mechanic, because if they break something, they're responsible for fixing the problem.

[M.Nguyen]

Originally Posted by andy_95sl2

bring it to a mechanic, because if they break something, they're responsible for fixing the problem.

Pretty crappy way of telling him to let someone else screw it up then end up paying for HIS (previous owner's) lack of maintenance.

Too bad more of the world isn't as thoughtful as you are.

Honestly, if you brought it into a mechanic and it was that hard, they'll charge you as soon as they throw the socket over the first spark plug, and if they think risk is greater than income, they'll say "No, thank you." but charge you a flat fee. Or they'll have you sign a waiver saying that they're not responsible for it due to lack of maintenance on the vehicle.

My best guess is to use a penetrant and let it soak all over the plugs. Maybe remove the excess with a paper towel, and start the car for a few mins to warm it up. Not reccomended on a hot engine though. then try to remove it (let it soak overnight)

[madpogue]

No big deal removing spark plugs from a hot engine (well, maybe some scorched fingertips...). Just make sure you don't install them into a hot or warm engine.

[KAdams4458]

Real nice. It runs like that?

I've found some stuck in various vehicles over the years. I always just go at 'em with a good breaker bar. They'll give eventually.

[Tiger]

I like PB Blaster as far as a penetrant. It has been very effective the few times I used it.

[ken b.]

Shot PB BLASTER on the plug bases several times a day for the last couple of days. This morning they came out with just about the same torque that I put on them the first time I tried to remove them. Anyone care to join me for a beer?

[andy_95sl2]

no, but YAY!

[dcp]

I always heard pb blaster was some good stuff! now we know it is,good job!