Can a Timesert be installed after a blown Helicoiled spark plug? I have an '02 V10 that I need to repair. The previous owner had used a Helicoil type repair on the plug and it has failed. I tried to reinstall with a new Helicoil, but the plug just keeps going and doesn't seat in the head. Anybody out there that has come back and repaired one after a botched Helicoil repair?

I am only home on the weekends from work and I have bought a new truck and need to sell this one. I need to get this one fixed correctly, so I can pass it on to someone else with a clear conscience. I have limited time to do this work, so if it needs to go to a shop it will. Any help/advice would be appreciated.

I have read all of the threads about opinions of the best fix and I understand Timesert is the preferred method. What I am looking for is those of you with experiences on how to proceed with my situation. Will a Timesert even work? Thanks in advance for any advice you can share.
-Justin

 

Yes, you can use a Timesert in a previously blown Helicoil.

However, it's not a simple matter of just getting the basic 5553 kit until you know how big the new hole is. If the hole is too large (over .660"), you first have to put in a triple-oversize insert, then install the "standard" insert into the larger one. The triple-oversize insert requires a second tool kit and insert in addition to the 5553 kit.

If the casting of the head was not damaged beyond the treads of the Helicoil and if the Helicoil was the standard 0.660", then the 5553 will probably work just fine. If there was erosion of the head casting beyond the threads, then it becomes the two-step repair.

++ TIME-SERT, problem FORD 1L2E heads use p/n 5553 ++

 

Went through the same process of having to increase the Insert size. Cal-van 38900 is at .680 and if your hole is bigger then you need to order from timesert the 5600. CalVan Tools Ford Spark Plug Insert Installer CAL 38900 ive done 7 so far on my truck. tool is no where near as nice as timesert. but It worked great and still holding.

 

I ended up getting the cal van style repair kit. The local ford dealer uses thes as their preferred fix. I bought it from a local tool dealer cheaper than anywhere on the Internet. In fact the tool dealer had samples of failed helicoils and timeserts as examples to show customers. In the end I got the truck fixed for under $200 bucks. The coil didn't break and I had a new replacement boot kit in my garage, so just a new sparkplug for good measure. Thanks to all for the advice.