spark plugs sticking to sparkplug sockets

[ajchien]

So, how do you guys prevent the spark plugs from sticking to sparkplug sockets?

After I place the new plugs into the engine, sometimes the socket sticks to the plug, so that the socket separates from the extension bar ... often it takes me a few minutes to get the socket to stay on the extension bar...

 

[c3po]

I usually spray a little bit of WD-40 inside the spark plug socket or just dab some oil in there.

 

[brianl703]

I just use a long sparkplug socket designed for DOHC engines that sticks out far enough that I can reach it without needing an extension.

 

[Bill in Utah]

Silicon spray works wonders.

 

[The_Jeff]

I use a "regular" 5/8 socket without the spark plug retaining insert. Get the plug started with a bit of hose on its nipple.

Or if I use a proper socket, I use a needle nose pliers to grab it when done. No harm, no foul.

Not a fan of getting the porcelain part of the plug oily, don't know its effect on plug wire boots. If anything would use dielectric silicone I guess.

 

[punisher]

I use locking extensions with spark plug sockets. Like this:

https://matcotools.com/Catalog/toolcatalog.jsp?cattype=T&cat=2442&select=&page=2

I can't find the set I got, a 3 piece set 3",6", and 12".

EDIT: I don't know what the problem is with the "security certificate" for Matco's site.

 

[benjamming]

Snap-On Magnetic Spark Plug 5/8" Socket

 

[bdcardinal]

i stopped using Craftsman spark plug sockets. no such issues with my MATCO ones or the cheapy harbor frieght one i got for 4.6L motors.

 

[Herz]

I remove the plug retaining insert.

 

[Trav]

Hazet adjustable and magnetics.
http://www.zdmak.com/hazet-tools.asp

 

[hsd]

I fold a small piece of paper towel over the end of the extension then push it into the plug socket to make it fit tight enough that it wont pull off easily.

 

[tonycarguy]

Originally Posted By: ajchien
So, how do you guys prevent the spark plugs from sticking to sparkplug sockets?

After I place the new plugs into the engine, sometimes the socket sticks to the plug, so that the socket separates from the extension bar ... often it takes me a few minutes to get the socket to stay on the extension bar...


There's a rubber insert inside the socket. I insert the plug into the socket very loosely. The plug and socket then separate very easily, and the extension bar remains attached to the socket

 

[charbaby]

I welded an extension to the socket.

 

[Eddie]

+ Char Baby except I epoxied mine.

 

[saberz]

After tightening the plug down, i give a wiggle back and forth before pulling it. Never let me down yet.

 

[swalve]

I use a socket with the insert to hand thread the plug in (if necessary), and then a socket without it to finish the job. And vice versa for removals.

 

[Eddie]

You don't know what trouble in until you've changed spark plugs on a 4 Cyl air cooled Porsche Carrara. 8 plugs inside a sheet metal blower housing, working blind and 2 plugs per cyl and two different angles and no elbow or wrist room.

 

[gizzsdad]

Originally Posted By: Char Baby
I welded an extension to the socket.


I duct taped mine when having that problem!

 

[demarpaint]

I found the socket would stay with the plug after installing plugs today. I coated the inside of the socket with Di-electric grease, no problems, it easily slid off the plugs after I applied it. If I applied slight upward or downward pressure when removing the socket from the plug the extension stays put. The trick was as long as the inside of the socket was coated with the Di-electric grease.