I'm changing the spark plugs on my truck (355 SBC) and my truck has long tube headers, there is 1 plug on each side that i can't get to with the normal tools I have, because of a header tube being in the way.
As you can see in the pic I can get the 5/8 plug socket on the plug, I just need to find something I can fit on the socket.
Vinnie is spot on. I had the same issue and I'm using shorty plugs! The offset wrench saved me having to pull the headers and also allowed proper alignment when tightening the plugs. I made a run to Sears and grabbed a 5 wrench set for about $50.
Also, there are different lengths of sockets. I have one cylinder on my Ford with GT40P heads and Sanderson Headers that needs a 'special' socket. I took a plug with me to a couple stores, tried several sockets, found the shortest I could get over the length of plug and still get an extension fully on, took it home and ground the sockets hex end so only a minimum would engage the plug hex. It barely makes it, but does work.
It must be a Sanderson thing, because that's what I've got also and the clearance is poor, to say the least. I haven't been around hundreds of sets of headers, but I've never seen headers as tight to the plugs as these, other than some 'homegrown' headers. But despite that, they fit the chassis perfectly and haven't leaked, cracked, or anything else.
I have Hooker Super Comps on my chevelle, angled plugs, and I got a few I can't even get a socket on. I found a 5/8's offset wrench I use. It's a pain to even get the plug wires back on the plugs.
Thanks guys for the help. I ended up getting the other plugs with a deep offset 5/8 wrench attached to my socket. It wasn't easy at all though that's for sure, I will keep an eye out for other tools that might help.
I have an SBC with angled plugs, and tight tuck headers from Patriot. Since my heads are "D" port, that reduced my options. I have a couple of plugs that I can't get a socket on, with it on the ratchet. I can get the socket on, and then the end of the ratchet in just enough to turn it. Awkward, but it works.
One of my favorite wrenches for spark plugs and headers is a thing called O-Ratchet. This is a set of 6 point sockets whose ratchet handle engages the outside of the socket and is hollow. This allows the spark plug to project through the handle's head making for a very compact set up that solidly grips the plugs hex. The O-Ratchet sockets can also be engaged by an open or box end wrench as their hex is a standard size.
I have seen those, but couldn't remember what they were called. Probably a worthwhile addition to my tool box.
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Related Threads
?
?
?
?
?
Hot Rod Forum
2.2M posts
175.7K members
Since 2001
A forum community dedicated to hot rod owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about restoration, builds, performance, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, and more!