Fix a cross threaded spark plug hole

[Buzzsaw]

Got a quick question for you guys. I have, in my infinite wisdom, managed to get that hardest to get to plug hole behind the heater box on the passenger side cross threaded. The plug likes about 1/4" seating all the way down. I have seen on NAPA's website a tool called a thread chaser and wondered if anyone has had experience with one of these and if it can be used with the motor in place. I'm not sure what kind of problems this plug will cause but the motor just doesn't seem quite right. It starts and runs but just doesn't seem to be exactly right. Any help would be much appreciated.

 

[vervepipes]

just try not to get shavings in the motor, bad things can happen. one way to help if you must is using grease inside the hole to collect the shavings and clean it up with a q-tip when youre done, but thats what i was afraid of with my saturn

 

[spindlecone]

Plug chasing taps are actually cut with a pitch that allows the shavings to exit behind the tap, worst case would be to remove the head,, have it drilled and helicoiled
Good luck

 

[Buzzsaw]

Update,
Got the Threadchaser today and that thing worked like a charm. I used the same goop you use for the spark plug anti-sieze to coat the threadchaser. That stuff is really sticky and a good lube. The tap cut in and there are 4 deep grooves along the sides of each cutting edge and they really caught a lot of shavings. Put the anti-sieze on the plug and it went in perfectly. Got the motor started up and it seems to be running right now. Just thought I'd add the results for the next poor soul that crossthreads a plug hole that all is not lost, there is hope.

 

[remimo]

+ 1

Thank you for your message of hope.
I got one as well (http://www.back-tap.com/) $10 (+ shipping) on ebay.

Worked like a charm and saved the $300 that my Ford dealer was asking for reparing..

 

[BrooklynBay]

How many sizes do those back taps come in?

 

[remimo]

there are different tools for 10, 12, 14 and even 18mm for the oxygen sensor.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Do they sell SAE sizes (5/8" & 3/4)? Their website didn't have much information except for a video clip, email address, and a picture. Do they sell a set?

 

[drumming1monkey]

those back taps are a pretty neat too. Never seen anything like them. Wouldn't mind having a set either would be nice with the standard sizes as well.

 

[CDW6212R]

Nice tool, the back tap thread chaser.

 

[clynnfreeman6577]

Update,
Got the Threadchaser today and that thing worked like a charm. I used the same goop you use for the spark plug anti-sieze to coat the threadchaser. That stuff is really sticky and a good lube. The tap cut in and there are 4 deep grooves along the sides of each cutting edge and they really caught a lot of shavings. Put the anti-sieze on the plug and it went in perfectly. Got the motor started up and it seems to be running right now. Just thought I'd add the results for the next poor soul that crossthreads a plug hole that all is not lost, there is hope.

What size thread chaser did you use

 

[Mbrooks420]

Motorcraft SP400’s are 14x1.25.