Over the past few years I have been reading, with more than a little interest, all of the issues concerning spark plug blowout. Yesterday I changed the plugs in my truck, and was having just a little bit of anxiety over it. My 2001 SD has 76000 miles. Plug removal was easy, all came out with no detected issues. They were definately worn, as my power and mileage have suffered during the past few months. None of the plugs had any anti-seeze on the threads. I began installing from #5 cylinder forward (passenger side rear) as these are the most difficult to access. #5 went in fine, but #4 would not tighten. I was very careful and the plug started fairly easy. So off I went to find inserts. I purchased 10 since I did not know if any of the others would have issues. I installed the insert (Sav-A-thread by HeliCoil) which is a steel insert, not an HeliCoil wire style thread repair. Waited for the sealant to set up and removed the old plug I used to install the insert, and installed the plug. I have not started the engine yet, but don't expect I'll have any issues. Directions suggest waiting 24hrs. I Think 16 should be okay. None of the other plugs had any issues.

Seems rather odd that most of the people that have had any plug blowouts have been with #4 cylinder. There was no corrosion on the body or thread of any of the plugs

Now I have the other 9 inserts with the necessary tools in my truck just in case, as I am leaving town and plan to be on the road for the next few weeks. Better safe than sorry.

Ken

 

It sounds like you did good. I'd let it setup as long as possible though. Depending on your tempature and humidity, 16 hours could do. If possible, keep it 80 degrees plus and as low humidity as possible to help is dry/set.

 

Everything came out good. It was right around 100 degrees here in Tucson yesterday and humidity is about -100 (joking) but humidity is very low. What a difference the new plugs made though.

Ken

 

KenReb -- You deserve a "JOB well Done!"


biz

 

Good job and great info for the rest of us.