Number 1 Spark Plug Hole - Stripped! 1975 Bus

[BellePlaine]

I like the idea of connecting the a shop-vac to the exhaust if one was going to perform this repair with the head on the engine. However, I'm leaning toward removing the engine/head to do the job. I've got the time and I like the idea of having zero worry about metal shavings in the engine. Plus, I should service the clutch since I've never even looked at it.

So, can we also have a discussion on the methods of rethreading the port with the head off? For instance, isn't it best to remove/loosen the opposite head in order torque them properly upon re-installation?

[Sluggo]

I've done this with the head off. Some people suggested keeping the head on and using oil for the shavings. Just couldn't do it and glad I didn't. There was a very large amount of shavings there when I was done. No way all of this could have been been removed by some oil & a vacuum. Pull it and have peace of mind.