01 Expy - Getting Ready to Replace Plugs

[djtroz]

Wish me luck. Last time I replaced them (Dec 07), I had a plug blow-out during a trip out of state. I have feared touching the plugs since then. Well now, 60k miles later and getting hesitation when excelerating and occasional misfiring, I figure it's time... <sigh>. Hopefully they stay put this time so I dont face another $800 job.

[aleekat]

I'm guessing when you started threading them last time you use a ratchet. You can't tell if you are crossthreading them doing it that way. Start them by hand, if you can't reach, add an extension but no ratchet.

[djtroz]

Originally Posted by aleekat

I'm guessing when you started threading them last time you use a ratchet. You can't tell if you are crossthreading them doing it that way. Start them by hand, if you can't reach, add an extension but no ratchet.

No, I always hand-tighten until the plug butts up to the head before using the ratchet. Out if all re vehicles that I have replaced plugs on never have I had this problem.

I read somewhere that the best preventitve measure for these engines is every few months hand-check the plugs to see if any are loose.

[djtroz]

Finally got around to doing them the other night. Took a few hours as expected but hit a snag when taking out the plug that had blown out prior. The Ford dealership that had repaired it by using a steel sleeve and threaded insert. When I took the plug out, the threaded insert came with it. I tried my hardest to get it all the way back down to where they had it but it wasnt happening. I got it down about half the distance and it's tight but have the fear that it may blow again. I'll probably have a shop put in a new insert (probably by Timesert) that will lock in place to prevent another blowout.