4 cyl. (2.5L) spark plug rmvl.

Hello.
I have a 98 Ranger w/ 4 cyl. 2.5L motor (8 plugs) and would like to know if anyone has any shortcuts or advice regarding spark plug replacement -- primarily the 2 plugs under the manifold (lt. rear looking fwd.)
Recommendations regarding brand and type is also appreciated. Only have 55k on it, but don't believe in the 100,000 mile claim.

Thanks, Bob

For me, the "secret" is to dismantle the intake manifold. If you notice, it is of two parts and has a separation line that about even with the top of the head (this is from memory ... it may be a little higher or lower). I forget how many bolts, maybe four, maybe five ... but I do remember one is kinda hidden and you have to look for it.

After you remove the upper portion of the intake manifold, the spark plugs are very accessable.

A good trick is a very long 3/8 extension with a double wobble spark plug socket down through the separations in the manifold. With a little luck you can get right to them.

Hello.
I have a 98 Ranger w/ 4 cyl. 2.5L motor (8 plugs) and would like to know if anyone has any shortcuts or advice regarding spark plug replacement -- primarily the 2 plugs under the manifold (lt. rear looking fwd.)
Recommendations regarding brand and type is also appreciated. Only have 55k on it, but don't believe in the 100,000 mile claim.

Thanks, Bob

Bob you can get to all the plugs without removing the upper intake. You can get to the hardest one by going down between the runners as mobil12 has mentioned.

Ok, that's what I was hoping to hear -- didn't want to remove manifold unless absolutly necessary, yet thought it may be required. First time I've been intimidated by spark plugs :)

Thanks for your time, Bob

No need for an extension or wabble socket. Just lay up under the truck. The two rear plugs are about six inches higher than the oil filter. You can pull the wires off and reach the plugs from there.
I did mine that way about three years ago.
Clark

Hello,
Did you install manf. plugs or go with something different, sorry I know its been a while.
Thanks, Bob

I got a set of motocraft from my local dealer. Call me anal but I won't run anything but O.E.M.
Had bad experience with others in the past on other Fords.
Clark

Thanks Clark,
I was leaning the same way, understand these "modern motors" can be a bit tempermental.
Bob

Hello,
Just thought I would mention what worked best for me in the end: To deal w/ the 2 lt. rear plugs I bent some rod to hook on the boot handles and was able to extract the plugs with a wobble extension and universal adapter. I did try from underneath but it didn't pan out (may have been OK if I removed the oil filter). Used mechanical fingers to start the plugs going back in.
Thanks for all the input.

Bob