Stuck spark plug removal socket

[mar06mir]

Hi,

I was trying to replace spark plugs in my Corolla 2007 but the spark plug socket got stuck in the hole and cannot be pulled out nor easily turned either way. Not sure if it engaged with the spark plug or not, but the more I turn it in either direction the harder it gets. It seems it's getting galled (cold welded) to the sleeve leading to the spark plug. Any experience with this? Looks like an expensive repair if I take it to the mechanic.

[trentmeyer23]

Did you use the correct size plug socket? What size was it?

Was it easy to get in the tube? Or did you have to force it?

[mar06mir]

No, it wasn't quite easy. I had to force it a bit. I don't know what size is it as it's still in the sleeve. But there are two sizes only. Right. Can the sleeve be pulled out?

[mar06mir]

I mean the tube. Can it be pulled out altogether?

[mar06mir]

It turns easier as the engine gets cooler, but still doesn't go up.

[mar06mir]

Got it out after 4 hours of torture. Had to wait till the engine cooled down and then used cordless drill to engage it and a lever to pull it out. Spark plug still inside but may be loose as the engine warning lamp is lit when turned on. The socket is no. 16 with 22mm outside dia. I think it's the right size. Hope I haven't stuffed up the spark plug housing thread. Will get a longer socket tomorrow and give it another go.

[trentmeyer23]

There are only 2 common spark plug socket sizes, they are 5/8" and 13/16".

Are you using a 16mm deep socket instead of a spark plug socket?

Spark plug sockets are designed specifically to fit into the tube and around the plug. They also normally have a rubber grommet inside them that grips the plug as well. A 16mm deep socket is lightly larger in diameter than a 5/8" spark plug socket. I have also measured the outer diameter of a couple of mine and confirmed this.

[mar06mir]

I was using exactly what you've described. I have both sizes and I used the smaller spark plug socket with rubber grommet. Perhaps the engine has to be cold?

[trentmeyer23]

I am confused as to why it has a "no. 16" on it.

I have not heard of this happening before.

[mar06mir]

Sorry Trent. I've measured it, nothing is written on the socket. 16mm hexagonal would be close to 5/8". I'm pretty sure I was using the right tool, but probably too short. Will try to get it in one piece tomorrow so that there is no need for extensions.

[mar06mir]

Just saw on YouTube that there is also a 9/16" spark plug tool!! Unpacked my new spark plugs and measured them. They are just over 14mm, which makes them 6/16"!! How silly!

[mar06mir]

I've meant 9/16".

[trentmeyer23]

The thread or the hex flange?

[mar06mir]

Both. Will check tomorrow. I don't know what might have happened down there while I was trying to get the damn thing out. I was turning it in both directions.