So I was replacing the spark plugs on my 2001 Ford F150 V8 4.6L and somehow dropped a 7mm socket into the sparkplug hole without knowing...I put on the spark plug and ignition coil and tried starting up the truck. It made some rattling sound and I quickly turned off the truck. I removed the spark plug and stuck a magnet down there and picked up some metal pieces but not nearly enough to make up the socket. What do I do.

 

First of all, you made a fatal mistake by trying to start the truck after you knew you dropped something in the cylinder. I don't understand the logic on that one. Obviously the damage had now been done so an inspection scope light can tell you the extent of that damage.

 

I didn't know it was it there till after I got the magnet to pull out some pieces..the truck was maybe on for like 2 seconds

 

Oh ok, my bad, I guess I skipped over that part. In any event, see if you borrow a scope with light or they sell an iphone accessary pretty cheap. Similar to this:

7 mm Lens USB 2.0 Endoscope 6- LED IP67 Waterproof Camera Borescope 5M - USD $ 23.95

 

Oh Boy, This is HUGE.

not sure what i would do, options , I would buy assorted telisoping magnets and bend them around. Tiny shafts magnets.. Roll the motor so the piston is up. And flush with carb cleaner. Stick in magnet, Slush with cleaner, Stick in magnet.. Make up a tiny hose for the shop vac.. Suck. Then stick in magnet, Flush, Stick in magnet.. And hope you get it all, Hope you didn't bend a valve or crack a piston. Compression test should be in order also while your at it.. Cross fingers and hope you got it all so you don't cause more damage.

All depends on $, time, Tools,

Or you have to pull the head to inspect, repair and clean.. . If piston damage then you have to pull motor..

Sorry to hear about this. Keep us posted.

I like the borescope, I just might get me one of those.

 

Definitely get as much of the material out as possible with a magnet like stated before, the best indicator for damage will be a compression test. I would be really surprised if you didn't damage either piston, cylinder wall, or something on the heads