Broken Spark Plug!!!

[uh60james]

Well, I attempted to change my spark plugs today. I got two plugs out and replaced and neither showed any signs of having anti sieze on them but both cam out without a hitch. I dont know what cylinder it is but the drivers front plug snapped in half when I attempted to remove it. Is this something I can get out myself, or do I need to take it to a mechanic. If I need to take it somewhere is it safe to drive a short distance? Please help guys. Thanks.

 

[JDraper]

I'm guessing the plug snapped off below the hex...There are tools called easy outs that are designed to get broken bolts, etc out, but I'm not sure I'd want to do that with a plug. You risk putting debris into the cylinder.

Can you tell if it broke off cleanly, or did any pieces appear to drop off and down into the cylinder? i.e., is there a hole in the center of the broken off part? If it's intact, you may be able to GENTLY drive it somewhere for repair, but I wouldn't go too far...

 

[uh60james]

The electrode is still in the center of the plug so no debris should have gotten in there. I was thinking about using a dremel and cutting a notch to try to turn with a screwdriver. I would like to avoid the repair shop as I am a little short on funds right now. Thanks JDraper, keep the ideas coming guys.

 

[JIGAWHAAT]

Same thing happened to me. I snapped 6 out of the 8 plugs. To get them out I turned the engine over for a second, this will shoot out the ceramic that's left in there. Then I used a screw extractor, tapped it in with a hammer, and backed it out wit a ratchet. I used alot of liquid wrench and heat along with this process. A bit of a pita but not too bad.
the type of extractor I used is here:
http://www.brandsplace.com/0246-kd-720.html
(DO NOT BUY THAT SET FROM THAT SITE FOR $30.00!!! I think i payed $10 for my set from advanced auto parts)

I found the largest one worked best.
I am no mechanic but this method worked fine for me.
good luck.

 

[uh60james]

Thanks I think I'm gonna give the extractors a try. No way to get a dremel in there to cut a notch.

 

[JIGAWHAAT]

Even if you were able to cut in a notch I highly doubt you would be able to turn it with a screwdriver. Its probaly rusted in there, Hence the fact that it snapped in the first place. As far as the anti seize goes, Many here recommend it. I used it when I put my new plugs in and wish I did'nt. They tend to vibrate themselves loose. Mine is a v8 and I hear that they have a shorter thread hole. So if you have a v8 you might want to consider not using anti seize. Just my opinion.
Don't be shocked at how many tries it might take to get the extractor to get a good bite (I was). just be patient, Plenty of heat, And it will come out.
Again good luck
JIGA

 

[savagefan]

Do you mean the flats actually sheared off from the threads?

 

[uh60james]

I got it out. The threaded metal sleeve that covers the porcelain broke just below the nut. It left some porcelain and electrode inside. I was able to pop that out with a dental pick. I used a #5 easy out (the square kind) and tried to turn in with a 5/16 wrench (I think). I couldnt get enough leverage with that so I used an adjustable wrench and it turned right out. I cranked the engine without the plug to blow out the pb blaster and any little pieces that might have fallen in. And yes I did put antizseize on the new plug, I dont think the v6 will be able to vibrate enough for them to come out. Thanks for all the help.