Spark plug removal driving me mad

5848 Views 8 Replies 6 Participants Last post by sarge, May 13, 2016

sarge

Discussion Starter · May 12, 2016 (Edited)

GEN 2: Spark plug removal driving me mad

Ok, I watched the spark plug removal video, thanks for that. So I :
- took off the fuel tank
- took off the air vents
- took off the airbox.

I could not get to spark plug 1 or 4 because the frame was in the way so I:
- took of the left fairing panel
- unplugged some plugs
- unbolted of the left fairing
- unbolted the left frame plate so I could slide plug 1 out as per video.

At this point I realise my spark plug tool is not a flush fit on plug 1 not to mention the spark plug is rock solid in there (All the plugs are rock solid).

My bike did not come with the tool kit, what tool can I purchase to get plug 1 and 4 out, dear:headshake:

I currently used this toolhttp://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTYwMFgxNjAw/z/vk4AAOSw~oFXF-mT/$_57.JPG

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Porschenut

· #2 · May 12, 2016 (Edited)

I just did this last week on my 4th gen. To get the 1st & 4th plugs out I used the spark plug socket, an extension (maybe around 3") and an angled adapter on top of that.

Just to clarify, you'll need a proper socket set with extensions and the angled adapter. That T-handle socket tool you have will not work on plugs 1 & 4.

I don't know what generation bike you have, but you shouldn't have to remove any side fairings. At least it wasn't the case with mine.

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SkyDork

· #3 · May 12, 2016

Porschenut said:
I just did this last week on my 4th gen. To get the 1st & 4th plugs out I used the spark plug socket, an extension (maybe around 3") and an angled adapter on top of that.

The Gen 1-3 are different. The frame rails cantilever directly over the outer plug holes. There's very little room to work.

BUT....they are pretty easy to do once you figure out the secret. Get a spark plug socket.....

These are available at pretty much any hardware or auto parts store and have a rubber insert that holds the spark plug securely.

Drop it down the hole. Use a 3" extension bar and feed it down the opening next. Use your fingers to feel around and mate the extension to the socket in the hole and get it on the plug. Connect the wrench and crack the plug loose. Remove the socket. Use your fingers to finish unscrewing the plug and pull it up. Disassemble the extension and socket as it comes up to the top. If need be, you can use a universal on the extension.

Oh, and it's best to work from the front of the motor, in front of the frame, not behind it where the airbox is.

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sarge

Discussion Starter · #4 · May 12, 2016

will this set work

Phaze 50 Piece Socket Set

plus a separate spark plug socket?

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SkyDork

· #5 · May 12, 2016

sarge said:
will this set work

Phaze 50 Piece Socket Set

plus a separate spark plug socket?

Looks like it.

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Shift_Nashville

· #6 · May 13, 2016

Pretty much what skydork said...no need to remove fairings...There's no clearance, but believe me you can get 1 and 4 out, just takes a little muscle and finesse...
Drop spark plug socket in and use fingers to secure it on plug, drop extension in, use fingers to secure it on plug socket, put wrench on, go to town, then disassemble in reverse to pull it out...
I have a handy Lil magnet, it's a flexible steel tube with a handle, I use that to pull up out so I don't have to worry if the plug socket actually holds the spark plug on, and pull it out, and bam, good to go!

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dricked

· #7 · May 13, 2016

If you don't have a spark plug socket or it's not holding the plug properly, fold two pieces of electrical tape on the end of a regular socket. That'll hold the plug from falling in and it'll hold the plug to pull it out. I never use the spark plug socket.

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diesel10R

· #8 · May 13, 2016

mac tool SPS1 is the best plug tool ive seen. has a clip in it that holds the plug in. 100% flexable/rubber. was $15:grin2:

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sarge

Discussion Starter · #9 · May 13, 2016

Thanks a bunch for the tips , I managed to complete the plug change. I got a 10mm spark plug socket, 3" extension and a rachet, had to bung tape on the end of the tool to pick up the plugs.Plug 4 came out with a delicate hand job ( I wonder which wanker designed the plug removal like that), side top fairing had to come off for plug 4.

Negatives

-Plug 1 is a flippin c*nt had to strip fairings , coolant bottle etc
-One need to know what tools to use and cannot use a universal plug tool
-Took an age to complete
-The airbox is a nightmare to reassemble

I noticed some powder at the bottom of the coolant bottle?
I still cant get the cat off.

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