Accessing Rear Spark Plugs on 97 3.3L

[cj99]

Do I have to take the air intake unit off or is there another way?

I seem to remember reading about being able to access them from underneath or taking off the wiper assembly.

Which is easier? That air intake sure has alot of things connected to it for a diy'er to put back wrong.

[Jporter12]

This job is close to being beyond what the average DIY'er can handle! I do this stuff for a living, so it's easy to me, but I know for the average Joe, it's not.

If I recall correctly, I use about a 6 inch extension and put my arm around the back from the right side (facing the vehicle). Tight squeeze, but it can be done without taking a bunch of stuff off.

After you do this, tackle a Chevy Venture! Talk about tough to get to!

[cj99]

Thanks for the response. I dont know how you got to them that way. I tried and could maybe get to one. Can't even see the middle one. It is currently at the dealership letting experienced professionals do the job. For $90 labor its worth it.

PS - For others info, van has 85,000 miles, running and starting poorly, wife drives it 99% of time. I pulled the front 3 plugs for inspection and the electrodes were almost completely worn down. Owners manuel recommends changing at 100,000 miles, I wouldn't wait that long. Picked up double platinum champion plugs at the local autozone. "parts man" tried to tell me that vehicle didn't come with platinum plugs and they weren't required. I told him that I would call him to change them at 30,000 miles and show him how much fun it is and why double platinum is OE and a must on this vehicle.

[Jporter12]

The double platinum plugs, while a great plug, still don't last forever as you were saying. I can't believe the vehicle manufaturers say not to bother with them until 100,000 miles? And the "Extended Life" anti-freeze????? Bah! That stuff is worse if you happen to get a small leak!!!! They also don't tell you on the extended life antifreeze (other then in the fine print) that you have to put in additives for it to last that long!!!!

[RIP]

Old thread but......I changed my original platinum plugs at 132k miles. They looked like they could have done another 132K.