1986 Gmc Sierra.
Engine size = 350
Question: While trying to remove spark plug,I broke the insulator off. While
trying to remove rest of plug it broke off and rest of insulator came out too.
How do I remove the threaded portion of the spark plug out of block without
having to disassembly the head? I was told to use an easyout but don't know
what size to use or how to use one? Do it fit inside where threads are or inside
hole where insulator tip was? I've sprayed it many times with PB blast and carb
cleaner to try removing rust and other build up around the outside of spark
plug. Also what's the difference between an easyout and an extractor? I've
trying to remove or turn spark plug with needle nose pliers but can't get
enough grip on the metal edge of spark plug. I don't know how to use a torch
to heat it up and don't want to crack the block if I did heat it up. I've tried put a
screw driver inside where insulator tip goes to try turning the spark plug using
the firing point on spark plug it move a little but can't get the right angle
because of the steering being in the way. It's the 3 plug down from radiator on
driver's side. I would really be grateful if you could help me out.I need this truck
back running again so I can use it to plow with. Thank you very much Brenda
Engine size = 350
Question: While trying to remove spark plug,I broke the insulator off. While
trying to remove rest of plug it broke off and rest of insulator came out too.
How do I remove the threaded portion of the spark plug out of block without
having to disassembly the head? I was told to use an easyout but don't know
what size to use or how to use one? Do it fit inside where threads are or inside
hole where insulator tip was? I've sprayed it many times with PB blast and carb
cleaner to try removing rust and other build up around the outside of spark
plug. Also what's the difference between an easyout and an extractor? I've
trying to remove or turn spark plug with needle nose pliers but can't get
enough grip on the metal edge of spark plug. I don't know how to use a torch
to heat it up and don't want to crack the block if I did heat it up. I've tried put a
screw driver inside where insulator tip goes to try turning the spark plug using
the firing point on spark plug it move a little but can't get the right angle
because of the steering being in the way. It's the 3 plug down from radiator on
driver's side. I would really be grateful if you could help me out.I need this truck
back running again so I can use it to plow with. Thank you very much Brenda
Answer: An easy out and extractor are the same thing. They basically screw into an opening with
reverse threads so when you try to unscrew the broken plug, it will grip and help remove it.
Depending on how badly it is broken off or subsequently frozen into the cylinder head, will
determine how it has to be removed. I'd try everything possible before removing the cylinder
head, since that is a pretty involved task. I'm assuming you have nothing left to grip with the
spark plug socket, so that would just leave barely enough metal to work with. If there is a big
enough hole through the plug, I would try the extractor route first. I would hesitate in drilling or
using much, if any heat in that area. The risk is too big in doing damage to the piston or head or
block. You also don't want to ruin the hole needed for the spark plug itself, after the fact. Even if
you get it out and it's ruined, you will still need a new cylinder head. If you're uncomfortable doing
this, a reputable shop can probably get it out. If you're able to get the head off yourself, I'd take it
to a machine shop instead of a repair shop, since a machine shop would be able to repair the
threads and/or re-drill the spark plug hole accurately.
reverse threads so when you try to unscrew the broken plug, it will grip and help remove it.
Depending on how badly it is broken off or subsequently frozen into the cylinder head, will
determine how it has to be removed. I'd try everything possible before removing the cylinder
head, since that is a pretty involved task. I'm assuming you have nothing left to grip with the
spark plug socket, so that would just leave barely enough metal to work with. If there is a big
enough hole through the plug, I would try the extractor route first. I would hesitate in drilling or
using much, if any heat in that area. The risk is too big in doing damage to the piston or head or
block. You also don't want to ruin the hole needed for the spark plug itself, after the fact. Even if
you get it out and it's ruined, you will still need a new cylinder head. If you're uncomfortable doing
this, a reputable shop can probably get it out. If you're able to get the head off yourself, I'd take it
to a machine shop instead of a repair shop, since a machine shop would be able to repair the
threads and/or re-drill the spark plug hole accurately.
1992 GMC Vandura. 5.7l 8cyl. Question: engine runs rough when you accelerate.
Answer: It sounds like you are describing an engine misfire. A misfire while
accelerating is usually caused by an ignition system problem. Check all the
spark plugs, plug wires, ignition coil, cap and rotor. If these have not been
done in a long time, you may just want to go a head and replace them all
by doing a major tune-up. If it is not an engine misfire, then you may have
a bad U-joint. These can cause the same feeling as an engine misfire, and
usually takes an experienced mechanic to determine if it is a U-joint or
engine problem.
accelerating is usually caused by an ignition system problem. Check all the
spark plugs, plug wires, ignition coil, cap and rotor. If these have not been
done in a long time, you may just want to go a head and replace them all
by doing a major tune-up. If it is not an engine misfire, then you may have
a bad U-joint. These can cause the same feeling as an engine misfire, and
usually takes an experienced mechanic to determine if it is a U-joint or
engine problem.
