Spark plug repair kit
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2004
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From: Central Coast of CA
Helicoil is a terrible fix compared to an aluminum threaded insert like Timesert or Lock-N-Stitch.
In a pinch, it'll work until you get somewhere to get it fixed THE RIGHT WAY, but it should never be done for a long-term solution on an aluminum head, because Helicoil wire threads are stainless steel.
Stewart
In a pinch, it'll work until you get somewhere to get it fixed THE RIGHT WAY, but it should never be done for a long-term solution on an aluminum head, because Helicoil wire threads are stainless steel.
Stewart
Last edited by Stewart_H; Mar 16, 2013 at 07:45 PM.
Post Fiend
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 11,798
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From: Mt. Shasta California
Helicoil is a terrible fix compared to an aluminum threaded insert like Timesert or Lock-N-Stitch.
In a pinch, it'll work until you get somewhere to get it fixed THE RIGHT WAY, but it should never be done for a long-term solution on an aluminum head, because Helicoil wire threads are stainless steel.
Stewart
In a pinch, it'll work until you get somewhere to get it fixed THE RIGHT WAY, but it should never be done for a long-term solution on an aluminum head, because Helicoil wire threads are stainless steel.
Stewart
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 29,380
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From: Central Coast of CA
NEVER, NEVER, NEVER!!
Stewart
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I'm currently going through this same problem, can you heli coil without pulling the head?
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 29,380
Likes: 118
From: Central Coast of CA
Did you read only one post in this whole thread and ignore the rest?
Wow....ok.
Stewart
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 29,380
Likes: 118
From: Central Coast of CA
Heh, I thought for sure you would say "no" and explain maybe why your opting to go with the helicoil, instead of the proper way to fix this problem.
Oh well, I guess I'm gonna be wrong once in this thread.
Stewart
Oh well, I guess I'm gonna be wrong once in this thread.
Stewart
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Honestly I was looking for a solid fix that doesn't require me to pull the head. I have a horrible back and after 2 back surgery's Im not sure if I even could. I bought the Dorman kit but it must not be deep enough because my truck runs like crap and the service engine light is on (when I blew the plug the the light didn't trip). If the head must be pulled for a "forever" fix then yes the insert to me seems like a strong choice. So if that's the case I need to find me a time set kit and a craigs list mobile mechanic and do all eight, why worry when i'm on a trip a plug might blow. Hope that clears things up a bit, in the mean while I go back in the garbage learning as I go to crank on that "wannabe" insert.
Cargo Master
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 2,790
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From: Mount Royal, NJ
Honestly I was looking for a solid fix that doesn't require me to pull the head. I have a horrible back and after 2 back surgery's Im not sure if I even could. I bought the Dorman kit but it must not be deep enough because my truck runs like crap and the service engine light is on (when I blew the plug the the light didn't trip). If the head must be pulled for a "forever" fix then yes the insert to me seems like a strong choice. So if that's the case I need to find me a time set kit and a craigs list mobile mechanic and do all eight, why worry when i'm on a trip a plug might blow. Hope that clears things up a bit, in the mean while I go back in the garbage learning as I go to crank on that "wannabe" insert.
The time sert kit does not require removing the head. The work is done under the hood with only the plug and coil removed. I've done several of them in the past. Time consuming, but not terribly difficult. I give it about a 6 on a scale of 1 to 10 of difficulty, mostly because it is not simple wrenching, but careful reaming and threading in a sometimes tight environment which requires careful work and thought.
Post Fiend
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 11,798
Likes: 14
From: Mt. Shasta California
Honestly I was looking for a solid fix that doesn't require me to pull the head. I have a horrible back and after 2 back surgery's Im not sure if I even could. I bought the Dorman kit but it must not be deep enough because my truck runs like crap and the service engine light is on (when I blew the plug the the light didn't trip). If the head must be pulled for a "forever" fix then yes the insert to me seems like a strong choice. So if that's the case I need to find me a time set kit and a craigs list mobile mechanic and do all eight, why worry when i'm on a trip a plug might blow. Hope that clears things up a bit, in the mean while I go back in the garbage learning as I go to crank on that "wannabe" insert.
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 29,380
Likes: 118
From: Central Coast of CA
Depending on which plug blew, it will take about an hour to do the job.
I understand back problems. I've been dealing with mine for 13 years, so I absolutely understand your predicament.
Hope that clears things up a bit.
If you don't want to attempt the fix, you might be able to find a local mechanic who is familiar with the insert fix and should be able to do it fairly cheap for you.
When I had a plug blow on my Lightning, I paid a guy $100 bucks to install an insert in my truck. It was cheaper than buying the tools and insert myself and he had the job done in about 40 minutes.
Stewart
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Joined: May 2004
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From: Central Coast of CA
With only 4 threads per hole, there is less margin for error when it comes to installing plugs. So too tight or too loose (usually too tight) will allow the problem to occur.
Stewart
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Cool, thank you guys for all the great advice. Do you guys know much about the Dorman plugs? Steward I notice you had pics if the spark plugs so you must know. My question is can the insert go to deep or does that lip/top part stop it at the right spot. Im afraid of going to deep but I feel like its Sooo close. Any suggestions for my right now fix? Do I get a leverage bar and crank down until my 17mm shallow socket bottoms out?