How do you remove the tube in the head around the spark plug? I removed the valve cover but I can't seem to get the tube out which makes it nearly impossible to fix the stripped threads.

There is a special tool made for removing the spark plug tubes.It is a threaded rod that has tapered rubber plugs that expand when the rod is turned and grips the inside of the tube and then turns the threaded end of the tube out.I have only seen one of these tools and have never used one.You could probably make something that would work.Good luck.

Tube? Got a piccie of the tube? <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

I cross-threaded one of the spark plug holes in the head the first time working on the truck. I remember the cross-thread tool from shopping around. I knew NAPA had it...and it wasn't cheap...about $80 or so. But it sure was a whole lot cheaper than having someone pull the head and do it... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Amazon has it... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

If you were out my way, you could borrow it... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

The manual does not show how to remove these, and they are not available separately from the head from the parts desk.

If you find out whether they are pressed in or threaded in, I will be interested to know.

im very paranoid about my spark plugs, stripped out the 4th cylinder in my 22R in high school had to pull the head after a failed helicoil...

Here's one fer about $40 shipped... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

You may be able to save some bucks by using an expansion plug. Check at the local parts store for a freeze plug that is a rubber and metal expansion plug. Another possibility is to get a boat transom drain plug and modify it to do the job.

This is why I use a piece of rubber hose to initially thread my plugs.
Take a 12" long piece of rubber wiper fluid hose... slip it over the end of the plug... feed it down into the hole... twist the hose to turn the plug and thread it. The hose won't transfer enough torque to cross-thread but will thread the plug if properly lined up.

Works great! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

Since you have the valve cover off...you should be able to use a pipe wrench on the outer part of the tube since the pipe is threaded on. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Looks like the specialty tool fer removing that tube will cost about $60-$70... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

Old trick that works well. First used it on a 428 Mustang before the factory made a retro hole punch kit for the fender wells.....