I'm sure this has been done before. This is the # 4 (middle driverside) spark plug hole on a 97 3.4 runner. The first couple threads are cross threaded and the chaser tool I have won't fit thru the valve cover, does anyone know what pitch thread that is ....or can that valve cover come off without a major tear down as the owner is on borrowed time.

 

Yes the cam cover can be removed, but there is a spark plug tube that will still be in your way. That can be removed also, but it can be a bit of a pain to reinstall it and have it seal properly.

The best thing I can recommend to you is to seek out an experienced mechanic to do this for you. Make sure he has done this on this type of engine before or you can end up with a real mess. An experienced mechanic will have the special tools needed to do this for you in short order. If it is screwed up more you may need to have the head pulled and have a machine shop fix it for you.

This is one of those times it is better to spend a little money now or a lot later.

Gadget

 

This tool works great for cleaning up spark plug threads . http://www.sjdiscounttools.com/kdt3545.html It works from the inside out , so it starts on good threads . I don't know if its deep enough for your ap. though .

 

A shop close by said they can fix it if they can get to it for $85. I told my neighbor do it, it might cost that for tooling alone plus its pouring out side. Your right Gadget thats money well spent.

 

If it is screwed up enough we always fix it with a tap and dye set and then timesert the threads... pain in the butt

 

/hijack

Where in norcal do you live?