Not related to the plugs.
I rented a small trailer and brought the 100 4 cyl
engine to a shop in the "valley" here in SoCal to remove a broken generator
stud from the block. These holes are drilled right into the water jacket so
these studs frequently rust solidly in place. The stud was already broken
when I got the car/engine. In an attempt to remove it I broke an EZ-out. So
now there was a hardened steel bit in there as well. Ouch.
I had another
broken bolt in the exhaust manifold. I didn't even try, learned my lesson.
Both items were fixed in 45 minutes using spark eroding or edm. A suitable
electrode is used and an electric discharge or spark disintegrates the metal.
Very cool! Here's a demo video on youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRxljmABXL4&feature=related
This technology
usually can remove studs, bolts, broken taps without damaging the threads.
The thread was cleaned with a 5/16 BSF tap but there are a couple vertical
nicks on the threads in my case. The nicks maybe not too bad to require the
use of an insert or helicoil. I'll make sure to use thread sealant. I have
Hylomar thread sealant (not the advanced formulation which I have as well)
but I feel more for a Loctite or Permatex style sealant. I love to hear if
anyone has good experience with these or other sealants.
Overall I am happy
with the progress as this was holding me up.
Bert
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