Depending on your vehicle’s year, make, and model, spark plugs typically need to be replaced every 30,000 to 90,000 miles. The threads should be in good condition to make sure your new spark plugs hold up well. This is where spark plug thread chasers come in.
A thread chaser is a small tool specifically designed to clean and reform the threads of a spark plug hole. It polishes the threads to remove rust and dirt while redefining the threads. Because thread chasers don’t cut into the metal, you don’t have to worry about any loose metal filings entering and damaging the engine.
If you’ve heard of thread chasers, then you’ve probably heard of taps and dies as well. These are all tools used to repair threads in spark plug holes, and all three come in different diameters and thread pitches. However, there’s a distinct difference between thread chasers and taps and dies.
While thread chasers are specifically for cleaning rusty and damaged threads, taps and dies are used for creating new ones. This is why taps and dies are usually made of harder material, which allows them to cut into the metal.
Before anything else, it’s important to determine whether or not you should actually use a thread chaser. Thread chasers are great for cleaning carbon, rust, and other dirt on the threads, but if you notice any damage, then you might have to use a tap or thread insert instead.
Using a thread chaser to clean the threads after a blown spark plug is also a bad idea. When a spark plug blows out, this typically means the threads are already damaged. There won’t be enough material for the chaser to work with and will likely just lead to another blowout.
Once you’re 100% sure that your threads just need a little cleaning, you can go ahead and use a thread chaser. Here are tips on how to clean a spark plug hole using a thread chaser:
You’ll save yourself a lot of time by preparing everything you need before you start. For this DIY task, you’ll need a thread chaser, penetrating oil or engine oil, and a can of compressed air. Clean rags and a socket can also come in handy.
Having your owner’s manual within reach is also a good idea, so you can easily flip through it for more information about your spark plugs.
When removing the spark plug, it’s important to get rid of any dirt or debris that might enter the hole and damage the engine. Take a can of compressed air, and spray it around the area of the spark plug to remove any loose dirt and junk.
We recommend wearing safety goggles for this, so you can protect your eyes from any debris blown away by the compressed air.
Some people recommend applying lubricant on the chaser to catch any dirt on the threads. You can use grease, engine oil, or cutting oil for this. Grease is good because it’ll trap any solid stuff that might try to fall in the cylinder.
After inserting the chaser into the hole, make sure it’s set straight. You can thread it carefully by hand or using a socket if necessary. Some spark plug thread chasers come with a rubber neoprene ring that makes it easier to hold them in place.
If you’re using a socket to turn the thread chaser, be careful not to apply too much force. Doing so can cut some of the metal and mess up the threads, causing your spark plugs to go crooked. Fixing this will likely require installing an insert or a new head.
The exact price will vary depending on your vehicle’s year, make, and model. In general, however, you can expect to spend anywhere from $10 to $130 on a spark plug thread chaser.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.