77' CB550f Spark Plug Removal....

[Scrappyike]

Anybody having this issue. I am starting work on newly acquired bike and was replacing the plugs. For the life of me, I cannot get to the two center plugs. My socket is too fat. It will not go down into the plug well. I purchased two other plug sockets but same issue. Anybody have a solution to this? Is there a particular socket that works? Thanks in advance.

 

[carnivorous chicken]

I think your socket is too fat. I think you need to buy a narrower one.

Sarcasm aside, I'm assuming you're taking your tank off to get to the inside plugs? There are certainly sockets and tools that make it unnecessary, but I imagine your tool has to be huge/wide to not make it in there.

 

[Rich Ard]

There's actually a Honda part for that:

But you can use a couple of other narrow plug wrenches:

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=108607.0

 

[dualitymike]

I ran into the same problem with the exact same year an model. Comes down to finding a skinny socket. I found a set of pass through sockets at Home Depot. The sockets and ratchet have a hole going right through them so you don't need to use a deep socket. Part of the problem is that the spark plug passage makes a slight turn. The other problem is that the ngk spark plugs have a hex drive on them that's too fat to be practical on that model. Do what you can to get them out, them switch to the champion equivalent. The hex drive on the champion plugs is smaller so the necessary socket fits in there easily.

 

[Scrappyike]

Thanks for the tips. I checked with the Honda dealer and they said same thing Rich. But of course, not available. I will look into that set at HD Mike. Thanks

 

[Scrappyike]

There's actually a Honda part for that:

But you can use a couple of other narrow plug wrenches:

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=108607.0

Found one on ebay and received it today. Will get the others out tonight. Thanks

 

[uksparky]

I use a sears crafsman 11/16th long socket..small extension....putting them back in with an old 1/4 inch hose pushed over the end of the plug

 

[Bert Jan]

My socket is too fat.

sooooooo....
,
i have a gedore 18/19 and it fits like a charm after a visit to the local lathe

the picture is a 12/13 i know, i'm laaaaaazy