Need Advice Please

[scenicrearview]

so this is kind of a general automotive question but i have a 93 wagon with the 2.2 turbo.
i seemed to have launch a sparkplug out of my engine and now the threads holding it in are stripped.
any recommendations or advice? is this a common occurrence.

I'm new to the legacy club and humbly request any and all help that can be offered

[Zedhead]

Do a little searching for Time Sert. The only real permanent solution.

Be advised, it's not cheap. It might be cheaper/easier to just replace the head.

[scenicrearview]

ouch.... any ideas where i should look for a head?

[Bdubs]

Get a Helicoil! Try that repair first.

Perhaps someone crossthreadeded the plugs when they were replaced.

[Zedhead]

Helicoils are a temporary fix, at best. Especially in boosted, Al. head.

You might want to try calling the local salvage yards?

[decke48]

helicoil is a permanent fix. if done right. built engines use helicoil to strengthen threads in aluminum block/heads.
might be hard to do on a subaru. because you need to drill a larger hole and retap. put red loctite on the helicoil, thread in, break the tab, and then thread in the spark plug

[Zedhead]

In 25 years of wrenching, I've seen Helicoils work, and I've seen them fail. In my experience they seem to work OK in small engines, and low compression situations.

I put one in a Nissan VG30 head. 20 lbs of boost later, spark plug thru the fender liner. And a nice dent on my flawless fender.

I'm extremely anal when it comes to anything mechanical. I took my time, cleaned everything, and cured it properly. Needless to say, it failed. The head was unrepairable after that. I should have just used a Time Sert the first time.

[scenicrearview]

ok i have been doing some looking around. what is the difference between a time sert and a heli-coil.

also i dont plan to be at 20psi should that make a difference?

it is nice to have that option

[Zedhead]

Google: Time Sert Vs Helicoil

Plenty of info for ya.

Basically, the Time Sert is a solid insert, HeliCoils are wound wire

[Huffer]

Perfect excuse for some nice new higher flowing heads...

[scenicrearview]

Thanks for all the advice. it looks like i will be doing a time sert for now :)

i'm new but i already love this forum. you guys rock