Flying Spark Plug on 01 Camry

[mrd2001]

On the way home last night my 01 Camry spit out a spark plug These plugs were installed 30,000 miles ago on a fresh rebuild long block engine. The threads in the head are stripped out. Can this be repaired with a Timesert or should I just replace the head? The warranty is still valid but I'm sure that the re builder will blame the installer. The Dodge dealer that installed the motor was put out of business as part of Chryslers bankruptcy two years ago. So I'm prepared to bite the bullet and pay for the repair. The car only has 52000 miles on it and is like brand new, except the newly acquired outty dents on the hood were the spark plug hit it a half a dozen times before disconnecting from the wire and ending up who knows where. And of coase running on 3 cylinders.

[Mike Gerber]

Yes, a timesert can be used a repair, but I highly recommend calling around to shops in your area and finding a shop that is proficient at doing this while the head is still on the car. This is not the type of job I would try doing yourself, especially if you have never done one of these.

Good luck.

Mike

[mrd2001]

Thanks, I would hate to replace the head if it's not needed.

[ukrkoz]

well, what you want to do is to have that spark plug seat re-bored, to larger diameter. then, a special insert is installed, with much bigger outer thread, so that it can withstand combustion chamber pressure. you can remove engine head and give it to a good shop to have this done.