400ex Spark plug problem..

[jiggaman2401]

Well the tool box didnt come with the quad when i bought it.. So i cant get the spark plug out.. It seems the sockets dont fit in there either.. Anyone have any suggestions on how to get the plug out.. I fouled it and need to get it cleaned up/replaced!!

[JOEX]

An 3/8 drive 18mm deep well socket works for me. I put the socket on first then the short extention then attach the ratchet. Some say you need a thin wall socket.

[jiggaman2401]

Do you use a thinwall? Also do you go in threw the side or do you take the clear intake off and go through the top?

[JOEX]

I have a 18 year old Craftsman set, don't think it's a thin wall.
I go through the side/front, the only thing you need to take off is the spark plug boot;) :)

[jiggaman2401]

Alright thanks ill give it a shot again.. Maybe i just kept going in on the wrong angle..

[BLEEDRED]

I never had luck with a socket, had to buy the tool kit from honda.

[400exguy]

i bought a 7 dollar socket and cut the length to fit my bike.. Honda shop

cheap and easy

[400Rider022]

just go to service honda and order the tool kit

[zephead400ex]

18mm socket will work without question. Now, it is kind of a pain in the butt, but it will work!

This is what works for me. With you hand, put the socket onto the plug which can take a little fingering around. Make sure it is snug by trying to turn with your fingers. Put on a short extension and wratchet away. Make sure you don't strip the thead though:D

[jiggaman2401]

Thanks guys i went out and bought the tool today so much easier thanks.

[motoboy66]

next time you adjust your valves, take a dreamel and clean the castings off the valve cover. These are what stop most normal sockets from working. I found one socket would work until I had the valve cover installed, then it would not fit. 2 minutes with the dreamel and a sanding drum, and all 18 mm sockets fit just fine. i also did not get the tool kit ,and didnt want to pay for it just to get a POS plug socket. Most guys at the dealership buy a cheap 18mm and grind it to a thin wall.

[Rich250RRacer]

Honda does sell the spark plug socket separately, I just bought one about two months ago.