Rotating 3.1 v6 engine questions

[dobabc]

To get to the rear spark plugs, I've read all the stuff I could find on doing this. Not sure of -- 1) How many inches can you safely move or rotate the engine ? 2) If you do it by putting car in park and pushing the car, can one person do this? and 3) Is it difficult to reposition the engine back to the right spot to reattach the dog bones?

Thank you!
Don

[maxwedge]

I just pulled mine forward manually, then blocked the engine forward with a piece of 2x4 at the firewall, ch3ck and see if the upper mounts have the extra holes for using the bolts to hold the engine forward, you cannot really overdue this process as far as going too far.. Remember to have it in neutral doing this, wheels blocked of course.

[wafrederick]

There is a special tool out and most parts store sell them,GM engine moving tool and this is the best,safest way.You put this tool in place of the dogbone and run it with a socket and ratchet.I do not like the block of wood idea,one slip and you get yourself hurt

[ctwright]

I have changed out plugs on several vehicles like that, including a corisica with the same engine where it says you have to take loose motor mounts and raise the engine. Without doing all of that. They were hard to get to but was able to do it.

[BNaylor]

What year Century is this?

[dobabc]

Car is a 1999

Don

[BNaylor]

Thanks for the update. You really do not have to rotate the engine forward. Just use the right spark plug removal tools like an articulating 3/8" drive ratchet, plug socket and the right extensions and above all have patience. The problem with removing the two wishbone engine mounts is you will actually add more time to the total repair job. And what the others did not mention is it is a good way to damage the two lower engine/transaxle mounts.