Bolts holding down ignition coil packs WON'T come out

[LaserLikeFocus]

Pulled out two coil packs and spark plugs. (C and D - no problems).

Replacing all plugs and one ignition coil (B).

The bolts (8 mm) for A and B will rotate but will not come out.

I have only ever hand tightened the coil pack bolts. I've cleaned the plugs heaps of times myself, no issues ever before.

How do I fix this?

This is driving me mad.

[DZFord]

The plastic valve cover has embedded threads that accept the coil on plug ignition bolts. Those embedded threads have most likely loosens off within their mouldings and therefore just keep spinning along with the bolt. I think you're probably going to have to remove the valve cover

[LaserLikeFocus]

I came to the same conclusion. The perils of plastic!

[LaserLikeFocus]

Does this require a gasket/sealant replacement?

[DZFord]

Originally Posted by LaserLikeFocus

Does this require a gasket/sealant replacement?

Probably not, but it would be a good time to do so.

Originally Posted by LaserLikeFocus

Let's say I get the valve cover off with two still attached coils. What next?!

Good point. I honestly can't remember if the bottom of those threaded inserts are accessible from the underside of the valve cover. If they are - you might be in luck - you might be able to somehow wedge them or grip onto them enough to stop them spinning. If they aren't accessible, then you are probably looking at a valve cover replacement.

[LaserLikeFocus]

Let's say I get the valve cover off with two still attached coils. What next?!

[LaserLikeFocus]

Thanks for your knowledge and advice. I think I will leave as is.

The auxillary belt is still good but wearing, I think it will be wise to get that done at the same time as this valve cover issue by a mechanic shop.

[Crafty-bugger]

Try using a small flat blade under the coil pack to "lift" it ever so slightly to get to pull up on the threaded insert.

Hopefully that works

[LaserLikeFocus]

Thanks, I tried that and the coil packs are flush - you can get no purchase.

You can't even get an old steak knife in between the valve cover and the coil pack.