Install a Helicoil Stav in a Volkswagen Beetle

Cross threading a spark plug is a common occurrence with the WV air cooled engine. Sav-A-Thread is an easy way to repair stripped spark plug holes. The repair can be made in about 30 minutes without having to remove the engine from the vehicle or the cylinder head from the engine.

Steps

  1. Purchase a HeliCoil 5334-14 Sav-A-Thread 14M x 1.25 Spark Plug Thread Repair Kit.
    • The kit comes with a 14mm tap, an insertion tool, and 3 inserts (short, normal, long).
    • Locate a 19mm socket, a {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} extension, and a socket wrench.
  2. Cover the cutting end of the 14mm tap with grease.
    • The grease will cause the metal shavings to stick to the tool rather than fall in the engine.
  3. Insert the tap into the spark plug hole.
    • Start threading the the tool into the hole by hand.
    • Use the the 19mm socket, extension, and socket wrench once the tool is started.
  4. Back the tool out often.
    • Wipe off the grease and the metal shavings.
    • Cover the cutting end of the 14mm tap with grease and start it back into the spark plug hole by hand.
  5. Determine which size insert to use.
    • The insert should completely cover the threads of the spark plug.
    • The knurled end of the insert should be at the top.
  6. Apply high temp (red) silicon sealant to the outer threads of the insert.
  7. Screw the insert onto the spark plug and the screw it into the spark plug hole.
    • The insert should be screwed in to the top of the hole.
    • Remove the spark plug.
  8. Place the expanding tool into the insert and tap it several times with a hammer.
  9. Install the spark plug and torque it.
    • Replace the spark plug wire.
    • Wait 12-24 hours for the silicon sealant to properly dry and seal in the insert before starting the vehicle.

Warnings

  • Safety should always be your #1 focus when working on a vehicle. ABSOLUTELY NOTHING in this world is so important, that you should EVER practice unsafe maintenance on your vehicles. Always use the proper tools for the job at hand. Common sense is a VERY IMPORTANT. I try to ensure the pages I add are error-free; however, I am human and make mistakes.

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