Ecobuilder

I've got the timing kit and cover installed. Replaced the AC clutch bearing, idler pulley and tensioner bearings. Valve covers installed. Plugs and COP's installed on left side. Went to install plugs on right side and all four won't thread!

Can't seem to locate a spark plug chaser in the Ford specific size - M16 x 1.5.

Anyone think it'd be OK to gently run the same size tap in the holes or maybe the the threaded rod from the Ford spark plug extractor?

I'm guessing there might be some build up of paint or type of sealant at the start of the threads. Otherwise an undersized insert was used in the past.

Ecobuilder

Looks like an undersized insert was used on the right head.

Spark plug holes are smaller in right head compared to the left.

Now to figure out next step.

Eric Kleven

Oh man... that's some horrible news right there.

I'll be watching the Calgary news for random automotive machine shop fires.



Not sayin' you should do anything, but we'd all understand.

Ecobuilder

Worst part is the delay. I'm so close and I leave on holidays tomorrow.

Solution is to drill them out and put in a time-sert. Company that did the heads is covering it.

It'll be running before the end of the month.

Stay tuned!

redfishtd

Certainly a trip that turned into a saga . Wow a lot of work on your part to, this installing and removing extra times .
We are all waiting on a successful conclusion . Your knowledge bank is going to exceed most of us when this is over . It seems the machine shop should have had a ford spark plug for reference .

ReaperHWK

Any update?

nugget68

Just read this whole thread, very curious on status!

rsylvstr

any updates?
I have to admit, i thought the OP pic was a joke...something someone would post on BITOG as a joke.

Ecobuilder

I can assure you those pics weren't a joke.

After a very busy end of 2017 and too much wrasslin' with the head company, I got them to replace the head.

In the process of tearing off front cover again and removing bum head to do the swap.

Will post pics soon.

Looks like I'll need another set of head bolts and new phaser and crank pulley bolts.

redfishtd

If the heads okay , run engine flush maybe twice . It will run like crap . Then tear her down for timing after checking oil pan and lower end . If shes okay full timing job with new oil pump,lashes ,rollers . Run synthetic and I quart marvel mystery oil after you have super cleaned engine .
High north engines seem to do this condensation in crankcase and every day going from 200deg f to zero that night hell on engine .
Who wants to do oil change in winter in canada. Your short trips and not changing more frequently than 4 months won't work .
Odds are you can fix her. .