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Old 07-02-2015, 09:58 AM   #1
nhlblues
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1996 Ford Escort (Change Spark Plugs & Wires)

Hello:

I want to change the spark plugs and wires in my 1996 Ford Escort (1.9 Engine).

The problem is trying to remove the No. 1 spark plug boot and spark plug. Both are located behind the alternator and are difficult to get to. I tried a boot puller but could not get easy access to the boot to pull it off the spark plug. The other three boots and spark plugs are readily accessible.

Any suggestions from past experience as to the best procedure to remove both items?

Is it sufficient to place the dielectric compound just inside the opening of the boot before placing it back on the spark plug, or should it be placed on the metal clip that is ~2-3 inches down inside the boot?

Thank you.
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Old 07-02-2015, 01:29 PM   #2
Crvett69
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Re: 1996 Ford Escort (Change Spark Plugs & Wires)

since your going to change the wires you can grab the boot with a pair of long needle nose pliers and pull on it till it comes off. can use same pliers to reinstall new one. if the wire part stays on plug pull it off after wire it removed before trying to pull plug. long extension and plug socket should allow you to access plug without removing alternator. wobble extension or universal may help. i put a bit of the silicone inside the boot and use one of the old plugs and spin it around inside the boot to lubricate the rubber. you don't need to coat the metal part, grease does not conduct electricity
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Old 07-05-2015, 08:31 PM   #3
denisond3
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Re: 1996 Ford Escort (Change Spark Plugs & Wires)

Crvett69 is right. You need a long long pair of needle nosed pliers (mine is almost a foot long), and you grab the spark plug cap and give it a rotating twist, then pull on it. If the cap comes apart - it was too old anyway.

The "wobble" extensions often come in a set of three. They allow about 15 degrees of angle between the extension and the spark plug socket. If you dont use one of them, its real easy to crack the ceramic part of the spark plug during removal.

And when you go to reinstall the new spark plug, take your time. Dont get it cross threaded. With the needle nosed pliers I try to push on the plug cap until I hear/feel the click as it goes into place on the top of the spark plug.
Also, dont make the plugs overtight.
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