How do I replace the spark plugs on my VW Beetle?

Question

I need to replace the spark plugs on my VW Beetle (1970) and I pretty much know the basics, but any tips are recommended. My main question is, should I, or can I clean the spark plug housing (the hole it screws into) and if so, what should I clean it with and how should I go about doing it? It's pretty corroded and grimey, and I feel like it'd be a waste of time to replace the defunct spark plugs if the new ones are just going to get summed up too. (Also, cleaning the old ones is not an option, they have been damaged by the previous owner who decided it was a good idea to clean them with a wire brush.) Any help would be appreciated, and any tips are always helpful.

Answer 1

spray the housing with brake cleaner,it will dry up by itself

Answer 2

I normally blow out the area around the spark plug before i pull it out so the gunk wont fall into the motor ,buy new plug wires,pull one plug wire off unscrew the plug from the motor,gap the new plug,put a dab of engine oil on the threads,s***w the new plug  with your fingers to get it started then tighten it till its snug and just a hair more not too tight  its not a lug nut then do the resst dont mess around knocking dirt into the hole.  

Answer 3

cleaning them is for when there are no options ! you seem to have options so, change them. always do them cold !!!  don't get brutal with them spin them in using a small piece of fuel line over the top of the plug.. this will give you the reach your fingers don't have and they will spin right in.then get on them with a small ratchet till they stop and give them a 1/4 turn to be sure they are all the way in and not too tight. do them 1 at a time so you don't confuse your wires... check you gap as well before you install them.

Answer 4

The old V dubs are pretty basic man. No way the previous owner was able to stick a wire brush between the plate that covers the cylinders and the spark plug holes, there is simply no room for that. Use Bosch plugs, put some anti seize on the threads, and change one at a time and you will be fine.