The brand I used was Sav-A-Thread > https://www.amazon.co.uk/Helicoil-5334-14-Thread-Thread-Repair

It seemed to be the only one I could find online with evidence that it could be installed without taking the head off. I think if the head was taken off, it would be easy to line the insert up flush and lock it in with the punch tool. But doing it without, with an extension that far down into the engine, the only way you can guarantee it's really flush is by screwing it in with the spark plug.

I managed to get the insert back out with some gaffer wrapped round an extension in the end. The insert was good as new so got it back on the spark plug before screwing back in. Prior to this, I fashioned some long pvc clear flexi hose from a brake bleed kit onto a vacuum attachment to get in and clear out any remaining swarf.

I removed the lower rubber portion of the HT leads and cleaned them up before putting it all back together. I then installed the new downpipe onto new previously fitted backbox & cat. I used a thin layer of firegum on the flanges along with the gasket on the cat end with gasket only on the manifold end as it says in the how to (to prevent damage to o2 sensor).

Got the car flat and checked the oil level which was at minimum so topped up with half a litre I had from last oil change which brought it up to mid. On road test the car runs and sounds better than it ever has with an increase in power. I was so happy. It hasn't felt that good since I've had it. The EML light is still on but I imagine I just need the codes cleared to reset it. A local guy I've used before has a diag box. I'll report back following.

One thing I'm scratching my head about is the oil down both sides of the engine from the cam cover. When I had the gasket out there was zero damage present. Beyond that the only thing I could think of it being was a torque issue.

I plan on doing oil & filter this weekend. I'll clean up the engine when I do and check ongoing if the issue has been rectified.

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