Spark Plug Winder Repair: Get Help Now!

Hi fellow DIY enthusiasts!

I was just about to change my glow plugs, and I can't get the one on the infamous 3rd cylinder out. The spark plug turns, but it won't go in or out! Now I'm probably really frustrated. How can I get that thing out? Are there any special tools for this? What can be done about the damaged thread (can it be re-tapped? -> but surely no metal shavings can get into the cylinder)? This is how my dream of driving a TDI is starting... I wish I had just kept my Passat TD from 1985 with 330,000 km... "wail".

Best regards, Christian

Okay: Passat TDI, year 1995, engine 1Z, 174,000 km.


Thank you in advance.

Hello,

I once re-tapped the spark plug threads in the head and used a "HELICOIL" insert to re-install the spark plug. The threads are cut with a very generous amount of grease so that the metal shavings don't fall uncontrolled into the engine and remain on the tap.

I can't tell you if that's possible with a TDI engine, but it's certainly something to consider.

Hi Bertil!

Thank you for the quick response! The problem is, how do I get the old spark plug out? With the limited space, it's difficult to apply enough force to the part. I can already see that I might have to remove the cylinder head.

Best regards, Christian

Hello Christian,

If you also try to shoot the part out using compression pressure from the running engine? A thick cloth or a clear flight path (without your own head getting in the way ) should prevent dents in the hood or your head.

Best regards, Rainer.

Hi Rainer!

Das hab ich mir auch schon überlegt. Das Problem ist aber, dass über dem Glühkerzengewinde noch 5mm Gewinde im Zyko sind. Außerdem habe ich schon bei dem Gedanken daran die Hosen gestrichen voll Muss mich wahrscheinlich damit abfinden den Zyko rauszuschrauben. VieYou're welcome.

Best regards, Christian.

Hi!

Today, I found a pretty cheap offer on motorensuche.com for the installation of a Helicoil thread insert... so, I went out into the rain and removed the cylinder head .

Best regards, Christian.

Hi!

Ugh, that was a difficult process! After 5 weeks and involving a lawyer, I finally received my cylinder head back from www.motorensuche.com, and of course, it wasn't repaired!!! They lied to me the entire time. Of course, there are also good companies out there, like www.motorinstandsetzung-christmann.de! They managed to repair it in just 2 days!

Best regards, Christian.