How do I repair stripped spark plug threading in an engine head?

Answer by  Atomicrayon (2504)

There's no point in repairing a stripped spark plug. Spark plugs only cost a few dollars and most and can be purchased at any auto shop.

Answer by  6ixk (1156)

I'd suggest ordering a threader. You can get them off ebay pretty cheap, make sure you order one to the size of your bolt your replacing.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

The correct way to repair this is to have a machine shop drill, weld, and tap the head. This however is pretty costly. You could install a helicoil into the hole using a kit. If done properly it should last a long time and is a much more economical option.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

If you have the cash then you should take the head to a shop and have them repair it. It will be as good as new but it can take a long time and cost a lot of money. The other option is to use a spark plug hole re-thread kit to repair the threads.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

This can be done yourself put can be tricky. All your really need is a thread take of the right pitch and size and some grease. Apply a generous amount of grease to the tap and carefully start the tap. Run it in a few turn and back out. Repeat until it turns easily all the way in and out.

Answer by  laura27 (1216)

Take to shop so that they can weld and drill the head. If you don't have those kind of funds. Try this option. Be careful with how you can do it this way. A thread is needed, pitch size and grease. Put a medium amount of grease on tap, gently start tap. run a few times and repeat until turns.

Answer by  Ralphie1954 (420)

You will need a special tap to chase the treads. This must be done very carefully or you will finish off the head and you will wind up replacing it (major expense). My advice is to tow it to a machine shop and let them handle it.

Answer by  ambal (9)

There are a number of ways to repair stripped m threads. In fact, it may be possible to simply chase the old threads with a tap and clean them up. Or, as illustrated, you can insert a helicoil. There are several types of repair inserts. A proper thread repair should last as long as the life of the car.

Answer by  worker8852 (129)

Being a auto machinist as well as a marine service tech I will tell you that jims has it right. There is a way to do it without pulling the head but I can't tell you as you may not understand how to do it well enough before you start.