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Removing ceramic from spark plug

Discussion in 'XJ Technical Chat' started by Massimo33, Jul 14, 2011.

  1. Massimo33

    Massimo33 Member

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    Rick gave me a suggestion to remove the ceramic from a spark plug nut in order to make a leak tester. Anybody have any tips on removing the ceramic, I've tried chipping and drilling with limited success, running out of ideas.
     
    Massimo33, Jul 14, 2011
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  2. wizard

    wizard Active Member

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    The only way is to shatter it, I use a nail punch, it's not easy.
     
    wizard, Jul 14, 2011
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  3. iandmac

    iandmac Member

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    If you heat it cherry red with an oxy torch the steel expands and breaks the bond with the ceramic. Then just belt it with a hammer and punch and they just shatter like glass. Make sure you wear eye protection for both these operations.
     
    iandmac, Jul 14, 2011
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  4. TIMEtoRIDE

    TIMEtoRIDE Active Member

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    Wait - the 750 takes the "normal" adapter found in the kits.

    I was working on a plug from my Venture (same size as a 550) and found the porcelain to be incredibly durable.

    Maybe BigFitz or Chacal knows where to get the adapter ??
     
    TIMEtoRIDE, Jul 14, 2011
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  5. mlew

    mlew Well-Known Member

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    I use my Dremel tool to cut the crimp at the base of the ceramic off. Then cut off the ground tab. Put the plug on a support and hit the electrode with a hammer and they usually pop out. I have a tool box full of plug adapters I have made like that.
    OR
    Go to the auto parts store and buy a anti-fouling adapter for the plug you need. They are plug extentions to keep oil from fouling a plug.
     
    mlew, Jul 14, 2011
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  6. Massimo33

    Massimo33 Member

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    Thank you guys for the great suggestions, the adapter idea sounds a lot easier.
     
    Massimo33, Jul 14, 2011
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  7. waldo

    waldo Member

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    Massimo what kind of compression gauge do you have? Mine is like this one the fittings are the same as an air hose
    http://www.amazon.com/Universal-Compres ... B0059961AK
    depending on the style you have you can probably just buy a male air fitting and use your compression gauge hose. Spark plugs are made of porcelain and as you know the stuff is extremely hard but when it breaks it can shatter wear goggles and safety glasses
     
    waldo, Jul 14, 2011
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  8. Massimo33

    Massimo33 Member

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    It is similar to the one on the link, I have been walking by an 18mm to 14mm adapter for the last few days, that came with the compression kit (DUH) so I filed and cut down a rubber stem and WB Welded it into the adapter. We'll see if it works tomorrow and I'm sure I can always acquire another adapter.
     
    Massimo33, Jul 15, 2011
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  9. Massimo33

    Massimo33 Member

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    Whoops, meant JB Welded it on there.
     
    Massimo33, Jul 15, 2011
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