Cannot Reach The Spark Plugs

[borderglider]

Hi experts,

I just tried to change the spark plugs on my Carina E 1997, 4a FE engine. Thye are located beneath a 5inch deep alloy cover, which looks difficult to take off (lots of bolts, cables and tubes going in and out. My 'normal' socket set cannot possibly reach the plugs since they are about 5 inches below top engine cover. Is there a specialist tool for this, or do I just have to remove the 'rocker box' cover?

Urgent advice needed.

Thanks

G.

[Jamesbelfast]

Just go to a decent motor factors and buy a deep socket for the job.

Last time I was in Halfords they had so many they were actually selling them.:)

[ormi]

you need to buy the proper spark plug socked you will need a long extesion and a rachit....no point in taking the rocker cover off as the tubes stay were they are..

[junebug1701]

Yes, you need a proper spark plug socket that has a rubber insert that grips the plug, making it easy to remove. Also at least a 6 inch extension for your ratchet. Don't remove the valve cover as that won't help and you would probably have to replace the gasket set.

[Jamesbelfast]

No need for a rubber insert in the socket.

Just use a piece of rubber or plastic pipe which fits the end of the spark plugs - this method will also allow you to start the plugs into their threads when replacing.

[jeffrosie]

Right, but any half decent sparkplug socket will have as std a rubber insert to hold the plug in place to aid removal, refitting.