Any tricks to changing the spark plugs?
Thread Starter
Launching!
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 216
Likes: 0
From: Phoenix, AZ
Any tricks to changing the spark plugs I have a 98 TA with 46,000 miles and what I think are the original plugs. I would like to change them after reading some of the posts on here but they look like a real pain in the ***, especially the last one on the passenger side. Are there any tricks to changing them without getting pissed and throwing sh*t all over the garage. Looks like it would be a real test of my patience for me. Also it looks like the TR55 plugs with about a .050 to .055 gap are the best from what I have read. Is that true?
Re: Any tricks to changing the spark plugs Check out installuniversity.com
they have a good writeup on doing them.
On that #8 plug, I didn't have a 1" extension so I used a 13/16's socket(or close to that)over top of my spark plug socket. Worked pretty well.
they have a good writeup on doing them.
On that #8 plug, I didn't have a 1" extension so I used a 13/16's socket(or close to that)over top of my spark plug socket. Worked pretty well.
On The Tree
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 123
Likes: 0
From: Roanoke,va
Re: Any tricks to changing the spark plugs To get the plugs back in use a peice of 1/4 inch vacuum line from advance about five inches long and push it over the end of the plag it makes them easier to screw in. U can also use a box end wrench on the spark plug socket if u have to.
On The Tree
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 123
Likes: 0
From: Roanoke,va
Re: Any tricks to changing the spark plugs To get the plugs back in use a peice of 1/4 inch vacuum line from advance about five inches long and push it over the end of the plug it makes them easier to screw in. U can also use a box end wrench on the spark plug socket if u have to.
TECH Resident
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 834
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From: Marysville, OH
Re: Any tricks to changing the spark plugs I would definetly recommend that you have 1/4" - 1/2" ratchets with appropriate adapters and extensions. I used the 3/8" sometimes the 1/2" for the length and leverage to break plugs loose. To remove the plugs I used the 1/4" because it was smaller and easier to use in the tight space. The last passenger side plug I broke while attempting to remove from above. I had to remove that one from the bottom. I would also recommend swivels for all sizes and an adjustable headed ratchet. The adjustable head allows for a more square aproach to the angled plugs.
TECH Apprentice
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 315
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From: Hawaii
Re: Any tricks to changing the spark plugs my friend used a long, thin hollow pipe as a handle....he'd place it over a standard size ratchet handle and use the larger handle (the pipe) for extra leverage to turn the ratchet.
Thread Starter
Launching!
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 216
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From: Phoenix, AZ
Re: Any tricks to changing the spark plugs Thanks for the tips I got them changed today. It took me less than 2 hours, I only drew blood only one, and I didn't end up throwing anything, so I'm pretty happy. The car seems to run the same though.....still better than a Mustang!
Trending Topics
Re: Any tricks to changing the spark plugs The only trick is to remember to have the auto store check them before you get home....(found out I had a dud.....after I installed it and sealed everyting back up....) and be sure not to over tighten...you crack the porcellain...and it wont work.
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Launching!
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 294
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From: Nor Cal
Re: Any tricks to changing the spark plugs I just did mine for the 2nd time yesterday. Follow the install link above. It is very help full. I did all 8 plugs in a little under 2 hours. I hit #8 from the bottom. It is actually very easy from the under the car. The rest I just used and extention and removed the air tubes.
