Spark Plug Replacement

[nadores]

I read a number of solutions to replacing plugs and special tools either purchased or made up to accomplish this feat.  Yes I did buy one of the cheap mickey mouse aftermarket tools that worked fine on 1 & 4.  2 & 3 proved to be the problem.  My solution was to bet an 18mm deep well socket, a 3/8 to 1/4 adapter, universal joint and 1/4" drive ratchet.  Worked fine on #3 and don't see a problem with #2.  Also a 20+ year Honda tech rep suggested using a CB350 kick start rubber to hold the plug while you guided it into the threads.
If you're dead set on using the original Honda tool then I found a place in the Neatherlands that sell's them new for 96 Euro's.  With the exchange rate and shipping you'll pay about $150.  My solution cost's about $10 new.

[Lucky 1]

Just start the plugs by hand and you will not be a cylinder head destroyer.

[TOOLS1]

Necessity is the mother of invention. $150.00 for a factory spark plug tool? Here in the US they cost less then $20.00 new. They are the best tool I have found for changing the spark plugs on these bikes though. As for starting the spark plugs into the head, I will often use a piece of vacuum line, or small fuel line slipped over the end of the spark plug, but have never needed to do it on a bike yet.
TOOLS

[LukeM]

I believe I've posted it before, but find some rubber fuel line that's 5/8" in diameter, and use it to both start the plug in the hole, and to remove them once you've broken it loose.  If the plug won't screw in using the fuel line hose, back it out, and try again.  With a little practice, you'll get it down pretty easily.  Then use the socket to snug it home.

When loosening spark plugs, use an 18mm deep well 6 point socket. The wall on a 12 point socket will be too thick to reach the plug.  

Luke M

[Re-run]

I just got a 6 point deep well Craftsman years back. Fits right in, then a short extension. I put my plug into the socket and start it by hand that way. No different than using a rubber tube really.

[shinyribs]

This is one area where the DOHC guys have it easy. The plugs on those bikes are super easy to get at. The center plugs on the SOHC are a dog. But both engines really collect a lot of debris around the plugs when being ridden. Make sure to blow the area clean before you remove the plugs. Keeps the innards of your motor happy.

And I like the rubber line trick. Fool proof.