Hey there guys... had this problem for a while now... and now that i'm going to be changing spark plugs etc soon i was wondering if there is a way to sort it out... having a look down the hole i can't really see where/how bad its cross-threaded but the plug itself looks ok so must be the block itself thats causing the problem... the plug will go in pretty far but not all the way which i reckon may be causing her to splutter lately.

Any input much appreciated!

Remove plug and helicoil I would think.

Just looked into that... very clever stuff! lol

Would it be diyable or would i just be better off ringing round by the time i've bought the kit myself etc.

Phil

If you're handy with a spanner, how much is a decent head from a breakers and a new head gasket?

its not difficult in theory. its whether you trust yourself. it requires drilling out to helicoil tapping size. tapping the helicoil thread. then inserting the helicoil. ok if you used to this sort of work. but i wouldn't recommend doing it without experience.

TBH as the monkhai says its probably just as easy to swap the head.

agreed

Just grind or cut along the thread of an old spark plug (across the threads) so it looks like a tap.

That should clean the threads up

Just grind or cut along the thread of an old spark plug (across the threads) so it looks like a tap.

That should clean the threads up

If you do try this, slather it in grease so the swarf sticks to it: swarf in the cylinder wouldn't be good.

I would just run a tap down the hole first to clean up the thread. If you find the threads are to badly damaged , then go down the helicoil route, I just cleaned the threads on one a couple of months ago and its still going strong

Will post a link to these as I have come across them before

Sealey Spark Plug Thread Chaser 14 & 18mm, VS525 at Tool Shop Direct

Sealey Spark Plug Thread Chaser 10 & 12mm, VS524 at Tool Shop Direct

Can't remember off hand the spark plug thread size though. Also no idea if these are any good.

All plugs are one of 10, 12, 14 or 18 mm, so one of those will fit. Determining which is left to those who have a Felicia for reference material.

Might see about getting a new head and changing head gasket etc.

Will also get chance to put on the new inlet manifold gasket i've got to put on too!