I have removed and replaced 5 of the 6 spark plugs on my 2004 ford ranger. I have removed the inner
wheel well and wiper and coolant tanks. I just can't get the #2 plug started. I have a 5/8" deep socket
with a universal, but there isn't enough room for me to get it started. I tried to use the one of the old
plug wire ends to get it started by hand but "My hands are just to large to fit in the area. There is a
bracket holding the transmission dip stick , if i could loosen this it could help, but a deep socket won't
fit it and a standard socket doesn't clear the end of the bolt protruding beyond the nut.

This is a real pain in the ***. Any experienced help would be appreciated

 

On the passenger side i pulled the plugs from the wheel well. Removed the tire and try that way.

 

A variety of Rachets+Extensions+Adaptors+PlugSockets & NimbleFingers, plus Patience\Cussing\BandAids as needed,
is what has worked here swapping V6~4.0L~SOHC Plugs; can't say exactly which tools; its a re-learning everytime.

 

The solution to this was to purchase a 14mm thread starter, which fit perfectly into my 13/16 deep socket, something
i had from the old days, with a hex head on one end. I was able to very carefully get the thread started, then
run the tap in about 1/2". It wasn't too difficult to get the spark plug to start and then tightened up with
my 5/8" deep socket with a universal attachment.

This is a real pain in the ***!!!