[tahoerdr]

I just discovered that the mechanic that did my spark plug change ~20kmi ago stripped the 12-point 'teeth' on one of the spark plugs, so I can't remove it. Anyone have ideas how I can get it out? The dealer that did the service is a 2hr drive from here, I'd rather fix it myself if possible.



update:
I'm picking up a set of grip-tite sockets, going to grind down the deep 14mm. Also going to try the standard 6-point spark plug socket.....all gently, of course. If no luck, I'll be taking it back to the dealer.

Update 2:
After a visit to a local dealer, I may be the culprit or contributor to this problem after all. I used a craftsman 14mm deep 12pt socket with a small 6" long socket wrench. First 2 came out fine, took about 30ft-lbs. Third one either was already stripped or did so at only 20ft-lbs of torque. I took a spark plug and my socket to the dealer. Their snap-on spark plug socket is a very snug fit on a plug whereas the craftsman has a good amount of play. It looks like I should have waited for shipment of the right tool for the job! Got my fingers crossed the grip-tite socket or the proper spark plug socket works.


Update 3:
I got it out using a 6pt 9/16 deep socket w/ ground down walls. Tapped down the socket a few times, then wrenched it right out. The grip-tite socket was too wide, even if I were to grind down the walls. I got lucky on this one. Once I got the plug out, it shows that the socket was seated only halfway down the threads. I'm fairly sure my problem was that I didn't grind enough of the socket, I only went 3/4" up. Had I ground a full inch up the socket, it likely would have seated all the way on the plug.

[georgelb]

Wow, how on earth did they manage that? Even with a 2 hour drive, I would call them up and take it back to them; there really isn't much clearance in there and you don't want to mess it up any worse and have them then deny fixing it since you further stripped it.

[Glim]

Use a regular 5/8" 6 sided spark plug socket.

A 12 point socket will just grab the points which have been rounded off.

[JunkStory]

holy shit.. did they use an impact gun?