Spark-plug removal on C2 SB with AC

[Elliott P.]

The number 2 and 4 spark-plugs are inaccessible behind AC compressor. What is the procedure, or special tools required, to replace these spark-plugs? Service Manuals no help. I tried searching for this in forum archives and got nothing. Am I the only one who is too old and has too big hands? (Hey, I am too old to be bragging.)

[Edward J.]

Re: Spark-plug removal on C2 SB with AC

Elliot, I believe the only way is to try to loosen the belt and try to move the compressor forward all the way, see if that helps, other wise unbolt compressor mounting bolts and lay it on valve cover use a bungee strap to hold, put a towel under it.

[Tom L.]

Re: Spark-plug removal on C2 SB with AC

Not familiar with small blocks but I take the RF tire off and go through the wheel well. I'd think it would work for you since you should have more room. Have fun!

[Larry M.]

Re: Spark-plug removal on C2 SB with AC

I use the technique recommended by Ed..............but others have successfully used what Tom describes. Take your pick.

I have always been able to roll the AC compressor back and forward enough to access the plugs, including using a torque wrench.

FWIW.

Larry

[Leif A.]

Re: Spark-plug removal on C2 SB with AC

I just did this to my '67 L79 with A/C. I put the car up on my Quik Lift and removed the R/F tire. It's hard to describe but once you get the tire off you will see an opening in the wheel well where you can see #2 & #4. You'll need to put a swivel on the spark plug socket and then attach a 8" extension to the socket. I'm 6'5" with plenty big hands...it's tight getting in there but it took me less than 15 minutes to change both plugs. When inserting the new plugs, get a 4" piece of fuel line and insert the new plug securely onto the fuel line to help maneuver the new plug into position and start. A little bit of patience and holding your tongue just the right way and you'll be in and out of there in no time. While I had mine on the lift, I changed #5,6,7,& 8 while under there. 6 & 8 can be a bit of a pain (literally) to change from above. Best of luck.

[Loren L.]

Re: Spark-plug removal on C2 SB with AC

Back in the '60s when these cars were actually driven, it was Not a strange sight to see two 1 1/4" diameter holes drilled in the RF inner fender in strategic locations to accept a deep socket
and extensions.......

[Frank D.]

Re: Spark-plug removal on C2 SB with AC

I just did this to my '67 L79 with A/C. I put the car up on my Quik Lift and removed the R/F tire. It's hard to describe but once you get the tire off you will see an opening in the wheel well where you can see #2 & #4. You'll need to put a swivel on the spark plug socket and then attach a 8" extension to the socket. I'm 6'5" with plenty big hands...it's tight getting in there but it took me less than 15 minutes to change both plugs. When inserting the new plugs, get a 4" piece of fuel line and insert the new plug securely onto the fuel line to help maneuver the new plug into position and start. A little bit of patience and holding your tongue just the right way and you'll be in and out of there in no time. While I had mine on the lift, I changed #5,6,7,& 8 while under there. 6 & 8 can be a bit of a pain (literally) to change from above. Best of luck.

The fuel line trick is a great way to make the job easier and with a lot less chance of stripping threads...
I have an old, straight spark plug boot I use the same way...

[Elliott P.]

Re: Spark-plug removal on C2 SB with AC

Thankew, thankew, thankew, lads. As Sherlock was always telling Watson, everything is simple, once it is explained. Your helpful suggestions are very much appreciated. Back in the day, I might have noodled the tire trick out myself. I am now 78 and my 65 coupe is my Valhalla Car (last old car for fun). So, I bought this beautiful restored Stingray coupe loaded with all the amenities (AC, PB, PS) which I had never fooled with when I was younger and had a new 63 coupe and a slightly used 66 coupe; those were my go fast days. At my age, it helps to have a brain-trust for help. Thanks again.

[Don H.]

Re: Spark-plug removal on C2 SB with AC

Elliott, Beautiful car! My suggestion would be to add radial tires for greater driving pleasure, bias plys are no fun (in my opinion). Don H.

[Elliott P.]

Re: Spark-plug removal on C2 SB with AC

I wholly agree Don. As bought, the car had the "authentic" bias-ply tires. I am planning on having the car flight-judged this Spring just to see how it does. After that, it will be wide tread radial tires (with narrow white-walls - just call me old school).