Can't get socket on rear plugs (Page 2/2)
Skybax MAR 05, 07:25 PM
Its critical you get a good look at what is happening before taking action, the cell phone trick mentioned above is also a good way.

If you don't have an air gun/compressor to clear out debris, the next best thing is a "can of air" for cleaning out PC and keyboards.

[This message has been edited by Skybax (edited 03-05-2022).]

OldGuyinaGT MAR 05, 07:39 PM
As others have said, it is essential that the plug wells be clean before any attempt at removing the spark plugs.

However, it is possible that your plug socket's OD is too big for the plug wells. I had an 86 Firebird back in the day with the same 2.8L V6, and my Craftsman plug socket simply wouldn't fit the plug wells. I bought another socket and turned it down on a lathe:



The OD of the Craftsman socket is 0.886"; the modified one is 0.810". I don't know whether I needed to turn it down that far, but then it fit the Firebird and it's the only one I've used on my Fiero. But I just went out to the garage and checked (on the #3 plug), and the Craftsman socket fit nicely. So did a slightly bigger S-K that I have. So I guess I'd make sure it's the socket that won't fit into a clean plug well... but it's possible.
cvxjet MAR 05, 10:36 PM
There are numerous spark plug sockets made by different companies- each is different in OD....I have some that are very thick (Large OD) and I have some with a very thin wall (Small OD)...Check around if you need a smaller socket.

Note; Just checked and two of mine are .86"...One is .87", and one is .84"......one of the .86 ones and the .87 one are Craftsman- but very different years.

[This message has been edited by cvxjet (edited 03-05-2022).]

reinhart MAR 06, 07:09 AM
I don't think you need anything special. I have an old K Mart socket set I'm sure I paid less than $10 for in the early 90's that had a rubber lined spark plug socket that works great.
olejoedad MAR 06, 07:19 AM
The OP stated the socket fit the trunk side head, as the heads are exactly the same front and back, socket OD is not an issue in this instance.