I need to replace the spark plug tubes on the driver side. At pelican parts web site there is a DYI page showing how it is done. I have a question to anyone that has done this before. Did you have to remove the header to get to the last spark plug? Also will oil leak out once the plug and tube are out?

 

There was a pretty good write up on Rennlist in the 996 section. You might search there.

 

You do not have to remove the exhaust manifolds and no, oil will not leak out when you remove the tube. You do not have to remove the spark plugs either. It is actually a pretty easy job.

 

It seemed hard for me when I did it. It was easier to remove the exhaust for me.

 

Its all easy really, the problem is the tool to use, either buy the porsche tool which costs 2,500 usd or make a tool urself, i used a 1 1/4" rubber plug that i got at west marine, after that is was easy, good luck!!

 

I would change them all while you're in there. I would also change the spark plugs,so that you don't have to get in there again. It's a very easy job. Go on ebay or a marine store and get a Transom plug. You slip it in the tube tighten it up (not too tight,just enough) and pull out the tubes. Good write up on Renntech.

 

Thanks for the replies guys. I read the write up on Rennlist I also got a marine plug as well. In the pictures that he shows he shows on the spark plug which are easily accessible by removing the wheel. When I got under the car the one next to the exhaust manifolds seemed a little tough to get to. Plugs and wires were changed 20k miles ago. I will defiantly pull one out and look at it but I doubt you they need to be changed.

 

Marine plugs are also sold at hardware stores like Menards for a couple bucks.

Don't cheap out and use OEM tubes and rubber o-rings. Due to the difficult location, you don't want to do it again.

 

Dude, i even bought the $50 dollar grease. What kind of special freaking grease needs to cost that much.

 

The kind you'll need in having a porsche as you'll repeatably get bent over several times in the course of your ownership.

 

I did this myself without taking out the exhaust. I had fat big arms and hands but I was able to do it. But probably took longer than the usual Jacked it up, took out the wheels. Pulled the tubes out using a rubber cork slightly larger in diameter versus the tube opening (I didn't have a boat plug). Forced the cork in the tube and pulled it out and out came the spark plug tubes. Forced the new ones back using the socket wrench handle (specially the ones at the rear end). You can use lithium grease or slightly dab a little engine oil on the o-rings when you re-insert them. Never had leaks again. Be sure to get OEM tubes and o-rings.

 

Also, if you have trouble with the transom plugs slipping out of the tube before they pull the tube out, tear off a little piece of sandpaper and wrap it around the transom plug. They will grip and pull the tube out. I posted some pictures about it awhile back.