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> Looking for new spark plug socket
sixaddict
post Nov 18 2025, 02:28 PM
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This is a silly question but I need a recommendation as to a functional spark plug socket for a six. Haven’t done this for a while, but I have two sockets, one won’t hold the plug while the other won’t release it. Turning this job into (IMG:style_emoticons/default/headbang.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/headbang.gif)
Thanks
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930cabman
post Nov 18 2025, 02:37 PM
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DennisV
post Nov 18 2025, 03:14 PM
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QUOTE(sixaddict @ Nov 18 2025, 12:28 PM) *

I have two sockets, one won’t hold the plug while the other won’t release it.

Are you using sockets with the rubber inserts? Have you tried a magnetic one?

I bought a used Snap-on one off eBay and have been happy with its use on our 356 engine.
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sixaddict
post Nov 18 2025, 04:06 PM
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Of course they have inserts…..as I said one is old and not good enough to hold the plug.
The newer one is so tight the extension pulls loose, and the socket stays behind.
Like I said silly ass problem but figuring someone has a socket that works….
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NARP74
post Nov 18 2025, 04:37 PM
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I saw someone using a koken recently, looked and worked really well. They have several different kinds.
https://kokenusa.com/pages/spark-plug-sockets
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sixaddict
post Nov 18 2025, 04:57 PM
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Looks good
Thank you!
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Front yard mechanic
post Nov 18 2025, 06:59 PM
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Electrical tape is your friend works great for lug nuts too
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porschetub
post Nov 19 2025, 01:13 PM
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QUOTE(sixaddict @ Nov 19 2025, 10:06 AM) *

Of course they have inserts…..as I said one is old and not good enough to hold the plug.
The newer one is so tight the extension pulls loose, and the socket stays behind.
Like I said silly ass problem but figuring someone has a socket that works….

I had the same issue ,found a seldom used one and stole the rubber from that socket that wasn't too tight on the plug ,finally found a solution ,in was a PITA ,cheers.
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930cabman
post Nov 19 2025, 01:33 PM
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QUOTE(porschetub @ Nov 19 2025, 02:13 PM) *

QUOTE(sixaddict @ Nov 19 2025, 10:06 AM) *

Of course they have inserts…..as I said one is old and not good enough to hold the plug.
The newer one is so tight the extension pulls loose, and the socket stays behind.
Like I said silly ass problem but figuring someone has a socket that works….

I had the same issue ,found a seldom used one and stole the rubber from that socket that wasn't too tight on the plug ,finally found a solution ,in was a PITA ,cheers.


same issue, Koken is out of stock. I have a few plug sockets and would welcome an idiot proof tool
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cassmcentee
post Nov 19 2025, 01:41 PM
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For installing plugs in my 4 I use a short length of 1/4" fuel line inserted over the plug end. It's easy to twist till the plug is threaded and easy to pull off.
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Ninja
post Nov 19 2025, 02:26 PM
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Been wrenching daily for 4 decades...

Stopped playing with "hold the plug" inserts 20 years back.

Magnet for plug removal after loosening.

Rubber hose for install.

On EVERYTHING, not just 914s.

If the threads are in proper shape, you should be able to seat the plug with the hose.

If you can't the threads in the heads should be carefully wire brushed out.

Shotgun cleaning kits last less than 1 year in my shop. I use a slow speed drill with them.
In forward rotation it will tend to pull the debris out of the hole.
In reverse it will leave the brush in the head. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/headbang.gif)

I also have a 3/8 drive impact extension with a pin instead of a ball for retention.
On a severe problem child, I'll use that to guarantee socket removal.
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sixaddict
post Nov 19 2025, 05:48 PM
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As usual given time …..this site always comes through! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)
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fixer34
post Nov 19 2025, 05:54 PM
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This plug socket came with my -6 when I got it 48 yrs ago. Plenty long enough and flexible rubber 'cone' inside. Haven't done plugs in years, but if I recall, it worked fine for both insert and remove. Attached Image
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rgalla9146
post Nov 19 2025, 11:13 PM
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QUOTE(Front yard mechanic @ Nov 18 2025, 07:59 PM) *

Electrical tape is your friend works great for lug nuts too



I agree.
Remove the rubber and put a couple rounds of tape on it and reinstall.
Walla !
Tight as a rats ass.
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jim_hoyland
post Nov 20 2025, 07:13 PM
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Does the tape go inside ?
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bdstone914
post Nov 20 2025, 07:51 PM
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QUOTE(rgalla9146 @ Nov 19 2025, 11:13 PM) *

QUOTE(Front yard mechanic @ Nov 18 2025, 07:59 PM) *

Electrical tape is your friend works great for lug nuts too



I agree.
Remove the rubber and put a couple rounds of tape on it and reinstall.
Walla !
Tight as a rats ass.


How do you know that a rats ass is tight?
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bdstone914
post Nov 20 2025, 07:56 PM
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This is a BMW spark plug tool next to a 911 sparl plug tool.

It should work. It uses a plastic clip inside


@sixaddict


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Front yard mechanic
post Nov 20 2025, 10:27 PM
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QUOTE(bdstone914 @ Nov 20 2025, 05:51 PM) *

QUOTE(rgalla9146 @ Nov 19 2025, 11:13 PM) *

QUOTE(Front yard mechanic @ Nov 18 2025, 07:59 PM) *

Electrical tape is your friend works great for lug nuts too



I agree.
Remove the rubber and put a couple rounds of tape on it and reinstall.
Walla !
Tight as a rats ass.


How do you know that a rats ass is tight?

You could put your finger in itAttached Image
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frank_c
post Nov 20 2025, 10:34 PM
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Locking extensions solve the issue of the socket getting stuck on the spark plug after installing the plug. Useful for many other situations as well.

Example:
https://www.amazon.com/Neiko-00295A-Extensi...TFAA/ref=sr_1_6

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L-Jet914
post Nov 21 2025, 12:54 AM
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I second locking extensions but with a pin detent instead of the little ball as I have had spark plug sockets pop off inside a spark plug tube with the ball type locking extensions.
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