change plugs and wires on 2001 windstar

repair shop told me $375..to change plugs and wires-what in the world is so difficult to warrant such an extravicant cost?

Morotcraft plugs ($36) and Motocraft wires ($105.64). That leaves 2.33 hours at $100/hour for labor. You need to remove the engine cowl/wiper assembly to get to the rear spark plugs. It has got to be at least 1 hour minimum of labor and it is probably more.

repair shop told me $375..to change plugs and wires-what in the world is so difficult to warrant such an extravicant cost?
But if you want and can do it yourself you can get the Motorcraft Ignition wire set at $68.79 and the Autolite double platinum ( same as Motorcraft but do not take any other substitute for the Windstar) at $3.63 ea from Rock Auto Parts (online) plus a few bucks for shipping. The rear banks is the problem with this job but you will have access if you remove the cowl wiper assembly.

repair shop told me $375..to change plugs and wires-what in the world is so difficult to warrant such an extravicant cost?


I did this myself. I put the van on the drive up ramps, then was able to use a standard socket with extention to reach the three back plugs from under the van without any problems. The front three of course are no problem.

I did not remove anything from the top of the motor. I did have to use a light to see the back plugs from under the van.

It took me maybe 30 minutes max.

I removed the wiper cowel on mine, but I was also doing the lower intake gasket replacement, so it was needed. BTW with that off, and the upper pleumn off its CAKE to do the plugs/wires!! :D