I'm trying to get a beater that I picked up running. It's an '87 and I'm trying to get her started.

So far I've fixed a few leaks, replaced some hoses and replaced the starter solenoid.

Anyone know what size socket I need to remove the spark plugs on an '87? The two common sizes don't seem to fit. The smaller one is too small and the larger one won't fit down the shaft.

I'm also getting spark from the starter solenoid.

 

18mm I think

 

Yup spot on DPR9EA-9 -------------- 18mm plug socket

12mm thread 18mm plug socket, P for projected electrode, R for resistor, heat range 9, E for 19mm thread reach, A for specials and 9 for .9mm plug gap.

Just in case you needed the xtra info

 

show off !


Sprock edit : ...... who me never !

 

And don,t forget you need to use the right torque, a lot of poeple will just go by feel, a big no no on aluminum engines.

 

Yup 18 it is, but it's still real tight in there. I'm lost as to why the Honda engineers would make the shaft so tight.

Is there another compatible plug that could be used that has a 16 mm plug socket?

Also why is my starter solenoid jumping the gap and sparking across the terminals? Could it be corrosion?

 

Not sure what you mean here. The "solenoid" is actually just a relay with the main fuse piggy-backed to it. If there is sparking at this relay then it will need to be replaced and the connectors to it renewed. If you could attach a picture of where it's sparking and let us know when it is sparking then it would help us help you.

When it comes to electrical issues it's easy to start chasing squirrels.

 

Maybe Mr chips may have had his chips....................................
After only 23 posts - what a shame................


Oh and any sparking around the solenoid is a NO NO
Check out the terminals for dirt causing "tracking"
I'd replace it - easy and cheap (as chips) hehe

MK4 - Honda engineers don't make the plugs so tight - people just let them rust in place................
or EEEEEK cross thread them.
With the right spanner it should be a breeze.
I put Copperslip on my plug threads................