Hot Rods Proper way to Install Sparkplug Tubes in an Early Hemi

Looking for guidance on installing sparkplug tubes in an early Hemi

 

I always stick my index fingertip into the hole on the bottom, hold the tube at a reasonable angle, and slide the spark plug down the side. This way, the plug electrode hits my fingertip and the pre-set gap is preserved. After that, it's simply a matter of inserting the tube (with the rubber ring and metal washer previously installed) into the head (valve cover) and tightening the plug. If you're not sure of the "feel", use a torque wrench to tighten them. You do know of course, that you don't use spark plug washers on early hemi's. The soft aluminum tube bottom serves that purpose.

You're on your own with the wire covers; just make sure you have all the stock clips. It makes it easier.

 

I would always, using a magnetic socket and extension, put the spark plug in the socket while holding it vertical and slide the tube over the plug. That way you can hold the tube with one hand, and guide the combo straight to the plug hole.

 

I always used a spark plug boot to hold the plug. These were my favorites. Long, nice flange to pull on and the flutes to help with spinning. They worked on almost everything. Much preferred to sockets or other aids. You could easily install quickly and wouldn't exert enough torque to cross-thread.
On a hemi, the end could hold a big flat blade screwdriver if there wasn't enough room between the tube and the end of the boot.

 

Are you asking about the sparkplug install or the tube that seals the valve cover?

 

Magnetic socket is the best.

 

Stick the plug in a section of fuel line and spin them in .

 

If you can afford a Hemi, you can afford a magnetic socket and a 6” extension.

 

Older "Craftsman" spark plug sockets had a rubber insert that held the plug secure in the socket. Maybe some still do but I haven't bought any for quite some time so they may not but worth a look.

 

If you wandered through the pits during the 70's - 90's and saw a hemi powered car, you probably saw one of these. This is before people started buying and made their own.

 

I guess my question is do the valve covers go on first then the tubes are installed or visa versa. Also, do I remove the compression seals on the plugs before installing the plug. After sitting for awhile I have oil leaking into the spark plug holes. Is there a seal that goes on the bottom of the tube?

 

Valve covers 1st. I used to remove the washers on the plugs but I don't know if that is necessary on a street engine. There was aftermarket seals that went on the head before the tube went in to prevent oil from running in the cylinder. I think they were Milodon???

 

^^^^. HHH sells some seals like those that require the spark plug hole to be bored to size BEFORE head goes on. Tube fits tight in seal.

My O’Brian Truckers aluminum valve covers have a seal made in the plug holes to seal off the tubes on the top end.

 

I load the spark plug in the socket and a long extension, hold it up right, slip the tube over it, and install the plug and tube. Pretty straightforward.