XJ11 Spark plug thread repair

[kristo.thaler@gmail.com]

Hey everyone,
I got my bike last october and she died on me at work in early november. I replaced the spark plugs one night in an attempt to get her to start. Anyways, it was cold and dark and I crossed 2 of the threads. Didnt look too bad, vacuumed out the shavings and put them back in, but when I finally got her started again (wasn't the spark plugs) they werent holding pressure. It definitely showed in her performance as well.

The question is: What are my options?

[bikerphil]

You should be able to use a 14MM spark plug Helicoil, available at auto parts stores.

[IanDMacDonald]

+1 But, are you sure the spark plugs were threaded properly? This very thing happened to me. I heavily greased the threads, and used a chaser.

[kristo.thaler@gmail.com]

Yes, I believe they were threaded properly. I also greased them and it still didn't hold pressure. If I am to use a Helicoil, which 14mm should I use? There seem to be several different types.

[bikerphil]

The HeliCoil kit that will work on our bikes is part # 5334-14.

[jetmechmarty]

Here is an alternative repair.

http://www.timesert.com/

[TomB]

I've used both Helicoil and Timesert, both good kits, but the Timesert is much better as there is no risk of the insert screwing its way into the cylinder when screwing in a spark plug.

[kristo.thaler@gmail.com]

Thanks for the help guys! Bought Helicoils and thread lock to keep them from losing their place.