Stopping here, before YoouTubing this. Changed the spark plugs a few minutes ago on the Dakota, or I should say I changed 5 out of the 6. On #6 I broke the boot, the part that connects the plus to the boot, did not notice it until the socket did not go all the way down. Now that socket is stuck, of course "Murphy's Law it is the hardest to get to plug, the driver's side rear, near the cab.
So how do I A) Get my spark plug socket off? I tried needle nose vise grips, might try a magnet later. B) How do I get the plug out with the broken part on? Or do I need to get the remnants off then replace as normal? C) Replace all the wires I assume is in order? Should I replace the distributor cap since I will be back there? Last time it was replaced was in Florida, 4 years or more ago, about 30,000+ miles or so.
Since I don't have the funds for part until mt check hits the 3rd, and I then have an appointment that afternoon, if I just replace the bad wire can I drive it and finish later or would it be better to borrow a vehicle?
Noticed that 2 of the plugs had some gummy oil residue on them. Something to be concerned about? The other 3 were dry and a bit dirty/rust colored but not rust. Can post pictures if needed.
If you can get the socket off without breaking the plug putting a wire on it to drive shouldn't hurt. If you get it off try to get the boot off too and Robert is your fathers brother. :-) You could break the plug on purpose to pull the socket off, the nut part of it is at the base you will still be able to unscrew it.
Went out with my dad, we were trying to get the socket off and it dropped down totally around the plug, so just the broken part was left exposed, was able to get a grip with some needle nose vise grips and get it off. Plug is switched out, need to get wires next, luckily O'Riellys and Auto Zone are within a mile, so an easy walk.
oh I thought you said you have a major problem.... that is pretty minor. Living in the middle of the road salt belt WE have a major problem its called RUST!!!! it eats our trucks. I wish I had a lead on someone that could scout out nice rust free vehicles tthat I could bring back... rust free is so much easier to work on.
onto your other question YES change that cap and rotor. and buy the "better" grade, should not cost more than about $5 additional for cap and rotor combined.... better grade is brass contacts, cheaper grade is aluminum contacts within... does not last as long before getting eaten up with corrosion.
To me it was a major problem, I could not get the socket loose. I am the first to admit I am not a mechanic. I have seen references to having to remove broken plugs and had no idea how to even start.
The pick and pulls around here have a half dozen or more early model Dakotas usually.
