rear spark plugs 98 windstar 3.8 liter

[30fords]

can anyone tell me how to get at the spark plugs on the rear bank of my 98 windstar with a 3.8 liter.

thanks,

[BCMedic]

Originally Posted by 30fords

can anyone tell me how to get at the spark plugs on the rear bank of my 98 windstar with a 3.8 liter.

thanks,

On my 97 I tried doing it from under the van after I safely had it up on ramps and decided it was both more dangerous and also way dirtier than anticipated. I chose to remove the 2 piece black cowl/wiper assembly and put a big pillow on top of the motor and then it was an easy (somewhat comfy!) reach to the back.

[DRW1000]

I changed my 99 from the top after removing the cowl assembly. It was still a pain in the rear and I had to go by feel (good thing it only needs to be done every 100K) but it was accessable.

Ensure you use the Double Paltinums (Motocraft or Autolites) so they will last.

[vmvatbaby]

Look, it is much easier to remove the cowl, then to try and get them from underneath. However, if the plugs are old be very careful not to break a plug like I did. Make sure you have the right position. My #1 broke because it was the most akward to get to even with the cowl off. 98 windstar, VM

[CoachKarl]

Those two plastic pieces come off pretty easy on my 95. It exposes all the heater hoses too. You should consider changing any/all of those as long as you're back there. I lay a piece of plywood from the radiator to the intake manifold to support myself when I'm working back there. Be careful not to slap the windshield with a pair of pliers when you try to back your head out of there. . . like I did.

Karl

[DMS825]

I'm only guessing, but I think most people who say it's too hard from underneath, haven't slid themselves back far enough towards the rear of the van when they reach for the plugs. I can honestly say it only takes about 5 minutes to get them from underneath if you're far enough back towards the rear. The hardest part is pulling the boots off the plugs since it's difficult to get much leverage, and they've probably not been removed since the van was built.

[DRW1000]

Originally Posted by DMS825

I'm only guessing, but I think most people who say it's too hard from underneath, haven't slid themselves back far enough towards the rear of the van when they reach for the plugs. I can honestly say it only takes about 5 minutes to get them from underneath if you're far enough back towards the rear. The hardest part is pulling the boots off the plugs since it's difficult to get much leverage, and they've probably not been removed since the van was built.

I did mine from the top and removing the boots is the hardest part from that angle too.