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Spark plug re-thread - JD STX38

10 years ago

Hi all-

I can't seem to completely seat a new spark plug in my JD STX38 Kohler command 13 hp engine. After a few turns with a wrench it still appears that half of the spark plug thread is still exposed and I'm worried that cranking it even more will cause more damage. Even though the engine will run fairly decently, I don't believe having the spark plug that exposed is safe.

I plan on removing the head and re-threading the spark plug hole using a helicoil save-a-thread kit. I'll replace the head gasket with a new one while I'm at it. I also see that using a high temp RTV is recommended.

With that said does this sound like a good plan? Has anyone had good luck with helicoil? Any comments or suggestions are certainly welcome. Thanks in advance!

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Comments (4)

rexlex
10 years ago
would first make absolutely certain that you have correct replacement plug - plug screw depths vary.
tomplum
10 years ago
You can also clean the threads with a proper chaser and not remove the head. Some grease will help catch the filings .There are a lot of threads in that head and it likely won't need an insert.
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upup_and_away
10 years ago
last modified: 10 years ago
Both good advice and Y, and if u confirm it is stripped, helicoil is fine. I did so on my Olds spark plug many moons ago and actually have it on my trimmer plug 2 yrs knock on wood.
formulaross20
10 years ago
If helicoil says they can fix a spark plug thread, they can!

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