What repair method does Ford authorize for spark plug thread repairs?

Ford Motor Company authorizes the LOCK-N-STITCH aluminum insert and tool kit as the proper repair procedure, and states it is the only Ford-authorized procedure for spark plug thread repairs.

Is this spark plug thread repair covered under Ford warranty?

No. The procedure is not authorized as a Ford warranty repair; for vehicles within warranty, replacement of the cylinder head is recommended. Warranty status is 'Information Only – Not Warrantable.'

Does the LOCK-N-STITCH insert affect heat transfer from the spark plug?

No. Ford determined that repairs made with these aluminum inserts and LOCK-N-STITCH tools do not affect the heat transfer function between the spark plug and the cylinder head.

Can this procedure be used for ESP repairs?

Yes, the document states the procedure is authorized for ESP repairs and retail repairs.

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Ford Spark Plug Thread Repair TSB - LOCK-N-STITCH Insert Procedure & Warranty

Service procedure text for Lock-N-Stitch spark plug thread repair

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Service procedure authorizing Lock-N-Stitch aluminum insert spark plug thread repair, with notes and warranty status.

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This document is a service procedure page (page 2 of a spark plug TSB) from Ford Motor Company describing the authorized repair method for spark plug thread damage in cylinder heads. Ford authorizes the LOCK-N-STITCH aluminum insert and tool kit as a proper repair procedure. Technicians are instructed to follow the procedure included in the tool kit, which can be ordered from Rotunda by calling 1-800-Rotunda (768-8632), choosing option two, part number 302-00001. Four notes clarify the scope of the repair: Ford determined that repairs made with these aluminum inserts and LOCK-N-STITCH tools do not affect heat transfer between the spark plug and cylinder head; the procedure is NOT authorized as a Ford warranty repair (cylinder head replacement is recommended for vehicles within warranty); this is the only Ford-authorized procedure for spark plug thread repairs; and the procedure is authorized for ESP (extended service plan) repairs and retail repairs. The warranty status is listed as "Information Only – Not Warrantable." The page does not state specific model years, models, or engines, so applicability must come from the first page of the TSB. It was uploaded to the gallery of a 2000 Mercury Grand Marquis.

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Frequently asked questions

What repair method does Ford authorize for spark plug thread repairs?: Ford Motor Company authorizes the LOCK-N-STITCH aluminum insert and tool kit as the proper repair procedure, and states it is the only Ford-authorized procedure for spark plug thread repairs.
How do I order the LOCK-N-STITCH tool kit and inserts?: Tool kits and inserts can be ordered from Rotunda by calling 1-800-Rotunda (768-8632), choosing option two (2), part number 302-00001.
Is this spark plug thread repair covered under Ford warranty?: No. The procedure is not authorized as a Ford warranty repair; for vehicles within warranty, replacement of the cylinder head is recommended. Warranty status is 'Information Only – Not Warrantable.'
Does the LOCK-N-STITCH insert affect heat transfer from the spark plug?: No. Ford determined that repairs made with these aluminum inserts and LOCK-N-STITCH tools do not affect the heat transfer function between the spark plug and the cylinder head.
Can this procedure be used for ESP repairs?: Yes, the document states the procedure is authorized for ESP repairs and retail repairs.