spark plug threads trashed

[BallerDave]

Got an 02 Z28, the #1 cylinder spark plug threads are damaged. Can it be repaired or do I need a new head?

[bigrondownhiller]

They make thread chasers to repair the threads. One company actually makes a tool that expands after you put it in the hole. It will rethread from the inside out. Also make sure you use some grease to hold the metal shavings.

[BallerDave]

I've heard there are ways to fix it. Some people say the head has to come off, others don't.

[Knight]

It really depends on how bad they are damaged. If not too bad you might just be able to use a tap to straighten out/clean up the threads. If pretty bad, you may be able to use one of the tools that BigRon mentioned. Worse case, you could take the head off and take it to a shop to repair. That would also be a good time to look into upgrading if you're still stock.

[0rion]

well, number 1 gives you about the most room out of all of them to work on the car. Might have to put a heli-coil in there to fix it. I would look at running a tap first and see if you can straighten those threads out.

[BallerDave]

that's what I was thinking. If the heads come off replace them with something better. Being an 02 it already has LS6 block/intake. Might as well add the heads and cam.