Spark Plug Socket

[weezer]

This is somewhat embarassing. I have yet to replace the plugs since I got the car 2.5 yrs ago........ . So, I just got a set of NGKs and Magnecor Blue wires. But I have no Idea what size sockets to use.......I have 3 spark plug sockets from my previous cars: Audi, VW and Merkur XR4ti and none fit.
Can anyone tell me what size sockets?
Thanks much

[Panzer_M]

there is a tool in your tool kit to do it.

long silver tube with holes in it.

[Panzer_M]

if I had to guess I would say you need a 13mm Deep Socket...but I've never used anything other than the BMW provided tool so I am not sure.

[weezer]

I remember seeing it. I hate those things, they've busted my knuckle a couple of times before......
But, Thanks much.

[1996 328ti]

Just use a SAE socket. What is it, 13/16?

[aceyx]

Originally Posted by 1996 328ti

Just use a SAE socket. What is it, 13/16?

That should be right.

If you're a Sears/Craftsman guy, they sell sockets with rubber thread starters (just holds the plug in--thread reverse until you hear the thread seat, then round and round you go).

[roadrash]

Originally Posted by weezer

I remember seeing it. I hate those things, they've busted my knuckle a couple of times before..

OK, you don't have to USE it to change the plugs... but now that you know it's there, you could check to make sure it fits on your existing plugs, then measure it to find out what size it is, right? Then you'd know for sure what size socket you need.

JMJ

[weezer]

Originally Posted by 1996 328ti

Just use a SAE socket. What is it, 13/16?

I think it's 5/8 or 16mm. I actually have 2 lying around, and both with rubber inserts to catch the plugs.
Thanks guys,
Fariz

[aceyx]

If you have the new plugs, open them up and check the size. I just have a set of three (stanley) that works for my bike, car, and the snowblower.

The Ducati on the other hand, requires a thin-wall socket that costs $40. Bastards!

[weezer]

Okay, I've installed new plugs and New Magnecors; no.2 plug was coated with fresh oil......
But, it's not oil from the cylinder.......because it's not the kind of burnt oil you get when the piston rings have failed. It's most likely the spark plug seals on the valve cover........phew.
I knew that the valve cover seals were leaking also, as I've seen oil build-up around the edges.
So, another spring/summer project on top of the other ones:
Front wheel bearing(s)/hub(s)
Brake bleed/new fluid
Trans. flush/new fluid
Thremostat
New water pump/belts
Radiator (maybe?) and hoses
Rear shocks - Bilstein/koni sports
Throttle body and upper intake porting.
Valve cover, gasket and spark plug seals....I might paint the cover black with silver stripes.....I've done the upper intake manifold with the ported TB.
Maybe larger rear sway bar from Addco (25mm)
And, of course, the Stromung exhaust.
Anything else???