The most common problem we help people deal with is related to parts store thread repair kits that have failed. Once this happens the owner or shop sometimes tries unsuccessfully to re-install another of the same type inserts. When a parts store insert fails it makes the hole bigger, which prevents the same size insert from being able to help matters. Other times, some shops will say (mistakenly) that the cylinder head has to be replaced! If you have a similar situation, we can most likely recommend to you or your repair shop a professional, permanent type repair that will save the head and save a lot of money. No time to read? Call us at 800-524-9783 x251.

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DennisB DenLorsTools.com © Summary: Here’s a common question we get when it comes to Ford spark plug blowouts and which kit to use on 2001 and up Ford RF-1L2E Romeo style heads. Because of the extra step material the spark plug may sit up a little higher if a counterbore is not used. Then there’s the issue with parts store kit like the Helocoil Save-A-Thread kit that commonly fail making the hole bigger, which requires an oversize repair kit. We deal with this all the time. The heads can be saved in most cases if done properly with a good quality kit like the ones we sell.

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Damaged spark plug threads in the cylinder head can occur in any type of vehicle. Ford seems to have the most problems, however with all the cars today using aluminum heads; it’s becoming much more common problem. We get questions all the time on application for a wide range of car makes. Manufacturers like Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Acura, BMW Mercedes-Benz, VW, Audi, Mitsubishi, Kia and others can have worn or otherwise damaged spark plug threads. Sometimes the failure is caused by human error, like starting the spark plug crooked and cross threading it. Sometimes the spark plug hole threads are damaged by not tightening the spark plug enough which leads to loosening and vibration which eventually blows the spark plug out of the hole taking some threads with it. Even over-tightening spark plugs can stretch the threads causing damage. Whatever the cause of the spark plug threads getting damaged, we’ve got the kit that will save the cylinder head. Avoid parts store kits that merely put a band-aid on the problem. We have customer’s that need oversize kits after attempting a quick fix from the local parts store, but that’s a different article. In fact if that’s you’re problem see the following article on Oversize Spark Plug Thread Repairs. Otherwise continue reading about first time spark plug thread repairs. Also see our Time Sert 4412E-111 product listing for more information, order online or call us at 800-524-9783. Read the rest…

DenLorsTools.com Summary: Help finding which oversized spark plug thread repair kit to purchase. Spark plug holes that are made too large for regular thread repairs are usually caused by parts store brand thread repair kits that have failed. When the parts store type inserts don’t hold and the spark plug blows back out again the hole is left even larger than before. This requires an oversized thread repair kit. Sometimes the double oversized kit is not big enough. Fortunately, we have a triple oversized kit that repairs even the largest holes up to almost 3/4″. The inside still accepts the regular M14x1.25 spark plug.

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DenLorsTools.com Summary: Since 2005 at DenLorsTools.com and now our most recent tool website, WiseAutoTools.com, we’ve been answering questions on Ford spark plug thread repair kits. It always amazes us that there’s always new questions. A recent inquiry was regarding a 1998 Lincoln Navigator blown spark plug. I recommended the 5553 thread repair kit for the job. The Lincoln Navigator owner would prefer to use the less expensive Calvan 38900 kit and questioned why I made the recommendation that I did. Below is a copy of our correspondence.

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