This Weekend's Lessons (Antenna, Hard Start, Spark Plugs)
 

Well, I learned some great SVX lessons over the weekend. The school of hard knocks was in session. Here they are in no particular order of importance:

1. If your SVX is hard to start when cold (cranks forever, backfires, etc.) for heaven's sake, check/replace the coolant temp sensor (about 5 minutes' work and $20-30 cost) before yanking out all of your spark plugs to see which ones are soaked with fuel from leaking fuel injectors and/or yanking out your fuel injectors. I believe a bad temp sensor MAY or MAY NOT throw a 'code 21' (I didn't check my codes.)

2. Coil packs and spark plugs CAN be removed without using the wheelwell access holes which require jacking up the car and/or removing the wheels. Removing the battery and the air filter BOX is a must, though. (Yes, I removed all of the spark plugs and they were all clean and dry) I used a cheap stubby flex-head 3/8" ratchet from Harbor Freight Tools, a 5/8 spark plug socket, and a 3" extension.

3. the long plastic 'tail' on the antenna can (and did) break off inside the antenna motor/reel requiring me to remove and disassemble it to get out the broken piece. The antenna was crimped in one spot and I suspect this is where the 'tail' broke.

RE:

1. Thanks for the tip. I'll file this one away.
2. I'm with you. Do not take off the wheel and use the access hole. Just get the right tools. I have a very low profile rachet that wipped it all off in no time.
3. :eek:

Yep; I had to do the very same thing.

dcb

Excellent advice!! :)

Glad to hear the temp sensor fixed your hard start problems for you :)

What are the two hoses that cover the 2nd spark plugs on each side? Is it necessary to remove those hoses when changing plugs and if so, is it unbolted from the valve cover or just pop the hose off?

I found what the two hoses are: pcv hoses...but not sure they need to be removed.