Need help ASAP socket stuck in spark plug tube (1 Viewer)

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Joined
Aug 20, 2012
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Annapolis
I got a socket stuck in the spark plug tube. Any ideas how to get it out
 
Maybe try a bit of fast setting epoxy on the end of an extension. When its cured you should get enough leaverage to get the socket free.
 
I had found the gasket from the plug socket that the PO left for me. I used a very long set of needle nose pliers.
 
I had the rubber grommet from my socket stuck on the plug in the tube, covered in oil on #6. I couldn't get needle nose pliers in there. I had to use a couple sets of picks to hook it and fish it out. Still took about 2 hours of jacking around.
 
Try electrical tape around the end of the extension. Just a layer or two, inside out. Will create a tight gasket.
 
I've used needle nose vice grips in the past with great success.
 
shop paper towels, I made the mistake of buy a spark plug socket from O'reilys and had the same problem, also good extensions are important too . Good luck with your adventure and toss that socket in the trash
 
shop paper towels, I made the mistake of buy a spark plug socket from O'reilys and had the same problem, also good extensions are important too . Good luck with your adventure and toss that socket in the trash

Or, could get a locking extension.
 
Just reaching down inside to lock the extension is a tough thing, also the C-ring pliers, used for pulling of the front flange on FJ 80"s . BTW I despise crappy tools
 
I tried several ideas suggested but finally ended up using a coat hanger with a little angle tip to pull it out. The metal spark plug terminal came of the wire and got stuck in the socket.

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I always wrap the socket/extension joint with a couple wraps of good electrical tape before I start on the plugs (I tape the socket to the extension). Just to prevent situations such as yours.
 
Maybe see if you can source the Toyota spark plug socket. It is long and can not be lost in the tube!
 
Recently spent a few hours down a spark plug tube fishing out a stuck spark plug boot, not fun.
I would not trust tape to hold the socket securely; either a locking extension or one of these:

Amazon product ASIN B0014ZVSVK
 
I've used electrical tape and the coat hanger method as well. Neither was that great but it worked. The locking extension is the best practice for this application.
 
Toyota Tool bag has a great socket that works flawlessly and can even get to cylinder #6 with ease. I always forget about it and use my Craftsman spark plug socket. The rubber on the craftsman is too tight, toyota is just right.
 
Everyone should do themselves a favor and buy one of these sockets (that type in whatever brand you like.. I have a Matco one). No worries of getting it stuck in a spark plug tube. I also make sure the terminal comes out before I put the socket in there.. I lot easier to yank it out first with some needle nose rather than getting it stuck in a socket.
 

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