Anyone have advise on changing the plugs on an Espace 3 2.2DCI? Seen a few posts on this before here but with a thin wall 10mm socket (yet to be ordered and I can't seem to find for love nor money - help!) do I really have to drop the engine to get them out?
These should be easy enough to get out with the right tools unless the previous fitter overtightened them. By right tools I mean that I use 3/8" drive hand tools (I only ever use 1/2" drive on heavy stuff usually with an air wrench) and all professional techs. have a range of tools (1/4" through to 3/4" drive) to suit the occasion. A deep 3/8" drive socket should be enough to undo or tighten them.
These plugs have a taper seat so only need a light tightening to seal. (similar to the old taper seat spark plugs) The problem with the taper seat spark plugs was most people over-tightened them and then you couldn't get them out! Since these glow plugs are quite a small diameter if you over-tighten them, then when you try to take them out they can shear the top off leaving the plug body in the cylinder head and that is then a costly head off and machine shop job to remove the broken bit, so be careful.
Usually the whole job - test and replace only takes about an hour. Less if everything goes well. Also it is good to put a little lub. on the threads before you put the new ones in.
Roy