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Basic Tech : Changing Spark Plugs

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Old Oct 31, 2006 | 11:33 AM
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Basic Tech : Changing Spark Plugs

All - I know, I know...simple....unless you haven't done it before! Hopefully, this will help others too.

So, my question is, how do you change the spark plugs from the top? Pictures would be helpful, too, if you have them.

Thanks in advance,
Chris.
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Old Oct 31, 2006 | 11:39 AM
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This job can be very simple, especially if you don't have cruise control. Just take a 3/8" ratchet wrench and reach in under the throttle elbow and do it one-handed. I change them one at a time to prevent getting the wires crossed. I guess if you have big arms this might not work, in which case you should lift the front and do it from below.

If you want to change plug wires, it gets more involved since the plug wires are very crowded where they fit on the ignition coils. Then you have to remove the throttle elbow, throttle body, and maybe the oil filler neck.

Dave
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Old Oct 31, 2006 | 11:47 AM
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Remove throttle body elbow. Much easier with a STUBBY 3/8" rachet handle.
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Old Oct 31, 2006 | 12:23 PM
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Originally Posted by chinaman
Remove throttle body elbow. Much easier with a STUBBY 3/8" rachet handle.
Agreed. And don't forget Anti-Seize.

Last edited by Sgtblue; Oct 31, 2006 at 12:27 PM.
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Old Oct 31, 2006 | 01:04 PM
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I always coincide my spark plug changes with an oil change. So, with the car already up on the jack stands, I just change them from the bottom. No need to remove any parts of the car/engine to get to each plug.
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Old Oct 31, 2006 | 01:25 PM
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i change them from the top. bout 15 mins start to finish. i did break a plastic bracket or something a long time ago which makes it easier to change L1.
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Old Oct 31, 2006 | 02:23 PM
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im having the same problem, thanks guys.
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Old Oct 31, 2006 | 04:30 PM
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Do it from underneath, looks a lot easier. But I guess you all don't have a lift, or jack/stands.
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Old Oct 31, 2006 | 06:07 PM
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I just did mine from above not too long ago. Its really not too difficult. But like mentioned above it may be if you have large arms. I also changed mine one at a time to avoid crossing wires by accident.
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Old Nov 1, 2006 | 09:36 AM
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Thanks for everyone's feedback. I got two of them *fairly* easily with a little contortion....but the rear two... yikes.

How the hell do you get to them?

Thanks,
Chris.
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Old Nov 1, 2006 | 10:37 AM
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Originally Posted by Eggman
Thanks for everyone's feedback. I got two of them *fairly* easily with a little contortion....but the rear two... yikes.

How the hell do you get to them?

Thanks,
Chris.
As with any fine lady..... go in thru the bottom!
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Old Nov 1, 2006 | 01:25 PM
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You specified "from the top" in your original post, but it is WAY easier from underneath. Maybe 10-15 minutes start to finish.
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