Changing spark plugs?

Type_R

Type_R

Type_R

Soldato
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To cut a long story short, Jabba Sport did a 10k service on my car (what a superb job they did!), realised that the air filter which allegedly had been changed by the VW Stealership 10k miles ago, looked like it hadn't been changed in 5 yrs (since Ive had the car). They also checked and there was no record of my spark plugs being changed at 40k (the car has done 50k now).

So I have decided to change them myself. I have read a DIY guide on another VW forum as to how to go about it, but I cannot find out whether I need a 10mm or 14 mm spark plug socket from Halfords for the job. I know its 3/8" but thats about it.

Anyone help please with which socket it is I need, 10 or 14mm?
 
Amoeba said:
What's wrong with Halfords tools???? :confused:

OP: 3/8" = 10mm :)
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This is where I get confused. The 2 products are described as:

1. Halfords Professional 10mm Sparkplug Socket 3/8" Drive

2. Halfords Professional Spark Plug Socket 14mm 3/8"
 
Got the answer (or did I??) - now Im thinking it might be 16mm?

The OEM plug is actually a NGK PFR6Q Laser Platinum Spark Plug.

The technical specs for this plug state:

NGK extreme life plug. By using the highest platinum content in the industry, NGK has created an extremely long life spark plug. Laser welded platinum tip on center electrode and platinum tip on the ground electrode. The center electrode is taper cut which aids in focusing the spark while reducing the voltage necessary to start the combustion process, this will provide better throttle response, improve efficiency and allow a smoother idle. Stainless steel washer reduces plug self-backing. Technical Specifications - Extra Long Life Double Platinum Plug, 14mm Thread, 19mm (3/4") Reach, 5/8" (16mm) Hex Size, Gasket Seat, Resistor, Solid Terminal, Projected Tip, Fine Point Platinum Center Electrode and Platinum Tip Laser Welded on Ground Electrode, .032" (0.8mm) Gap.
 
I am confused now. Apparently the 10 or 14mm refers to the tread width and not the hex size. If so then the 14mm would be the correct one I think. Looking at it I am also thinking of going for the magnetic version?
 
Type_R said:
I am confused now. Apparently the 10 or 14mm refers to the tread width and not the hex size. If so then the 14mm would be the correct one I think. Looking at it I am also thinking of going for the magnetic version?
Click to expand...

Don't forget that you'll almost certainly need a plug socket and not a regular item as it will need to be deep enough to go over the plug.
 
classicVin said:
the 14mm i would say, and you may need a coilpack puller, and be warned.... they love to break.
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Any tips on how to take them out without them breaking as VW charge £27 each.

Also I think the VW sparks are NKGs as it is, the Platinum ones de-badged.
 
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