2007 Merc Optimax 150????

[MagikSmallie]

Managed to strip the threads while changing the spark plugs on my 2007 Mercury Optimax 150. not sure what my options are....can it be re-tapped or maybe a sleeve put in? really don't want to replace the head. To be clear it was only one plug that got stripped.

[roughscott]

I think you can put a helicore in but not real sure . If so be careful not to get metal shavings in your cylinder . Check on ebay for a used head plate not a complete head .

[BuckhrnBasser]

I had the same problem with a 2000 150 Opti, but maybe not as extreme. If you got the plug sideways and didnt screw it all the way in, go to Advance Auto and buy a thread chaser for a spark plug, (10 bucks at that time) and screw it in with a ratchet. You have to work it back and forth, not just screw it all the way in. When you work it out, spray the shavings with WD-40 and keep the threads clean. I have no idea why the metal in the plug is made out of harder metal than the block. Really doesnt add up. Hope this helps, because I kind of like your views on here.

[MagikSmallie]

I checked out the Heli-Coil...could be an option...I am hoping that a simple re-tap and die will work...thanks for the input guys...I'm gonna keep exploring options and we'll see what works....

[Embrey]

I had the same problem with a 2000 150 Opti, but maybe not as extreme. If you got the plug sideways and didnt screw it all the way in, go to Advance Auto and buy a thread chaser for a spark plug, (10 bucks at that time) and screw it in with a ratchet. You have to work it back and forth, not just screw it all the way in. When you work it out, spray the shavings with WD-40 and keep the threads clean. I have no idea why the metal in the plug is made out of harder metal than the block. Really doesnt add up. Hope this helps, because I kind of like your views on here.

almost every engine in everything has aluminum heads anymore. it just happens occasionally.

[PRO V LE]

And do not forget to use a little anti-seize compound on the plug threads when installing.

[Embrey]

I checked out the Heli-Coil...could be an option...I am hoping that a simple re-tap and die will work...thanks for the input guys...I'm gonna keep exploring options and we'll see what works....

if you have to helicoil,make sure you know how to do it exactly bfore threading it in. they are a pain to get out if you do something wrong. its best to remove the head to so it,but if you dont,grease up the tap to keep most of the shavings out of the cylinder. i can do any or all that if you dont know anybody.

[CTFSHWHISKER]

it would be well worth pulling the head,use the thread repair that looks like a bushing instead of the coiled wire one.check bassboatcentral or scream and fly,probably find a head on there if the coil don't work.

[Embrey]

it would be well worth pulling the head,use the thread repair that looks like a bushing instead of the coiled wire one.check bassboatcentral or scream and fly,probably find a head on there if the coil don't work.

the coil will work fine. ive put in hundreds over the years. if installed 'right' it is way better than the original tapped hole. the bushing is fine too, but also if not installed right will back out later when the plug is changed. every aluminum tapped hole should be helicoiled from the factory.

[Basswipe]

I think when you take the heads off these newer opti's, you have to get new head bolts. They can't be re-used.

I'm not positive on that, but definitely check with a mechanic if you are wanting to take the head off.