Spark Plug replacement suggestions

Before I waste hours and hours trying to replace my ORIGINAL spark plugs I would appreciate any input from fellow do-it-yourselfers. Thanks everyone!

[sxewhodey]

Looks like Im doing the same project this weekend. I printed out an article (3 Pages long) from the how to section. Looks very informative. The pictures are really bad though so maybe Ill take pics to contribute to the article. Good luck!

[immortal_suby]

The best advice I ever got on them was from a suby tech - he said you should never be doing anything with force - you have to "finesse" the plugs out. If you find yourself getting mad and working hard, get a different tool or perspective and try again.

[Chiketkd]

I changed all 6 this weekend. Expect a 3-4 hour job at least!

Removal of the entire airbox infront of the MAF is necessary along with the metal bracket that the airbox is mounted on (you'll see it). Also remove the entire battery and housing.

After you get those things out of the way, changing the three spark plugs on the passenger side are relatively easy (start on that side for practice) and the front two on the driver's side are also straight forward. That rear spark plug on the driver's side is a PAIN!!! There is barely enough room between the block and the sidewall to manuever the coil pack once you've loosen it, and we had to open up the access hole inorder to undo the spark plug...

Good luck and try not to loose your cool! It's gonna be frustrating at times...

-Chike

[ensteele]

If you get better pictures, send them to me and I can add them to the how to. Thanks

(to email me direct, click on Earl on my signature - you can use attachments that way)

[svxcess]

There is only one mistake in the spark plug document in the How-to folder.

When you remove the access plug inside the driver's side wheel well and push out the second plug you will have a direct line of sight to the last spark plug. You push the extension through the hole(s) before you attach the spark plug socket.

In the document it says that you have a direct line of sight to the last coil bolt. This is incorrect.

I found it easiest to remove the front two coil paks on the driver's side and move them out of the way to have enough room to get at the last coil pak bolt. I find that a 12mm long-handled offset box end wrench or a racheting box end wrench makes this job infinitely easier.

[Chiketkd]

Thanks for all your help in changing out my plugs on Saturday John! I'll second what you said...that long-handled box wrench is a must!!!

-Chike

Originally posted by svxcess
I found it easiest to remove the front two coil paks on the driver's side and move them out of the way to have enough room to get at the last coil pak bolt. I find that a 12mm long-handled offset box end wrench or a racheting box end wrench makes this job infinitely easier.