Questions about changing spark plugs

[Forcefed02]

Hi all,
I've got an '02 GTP and I'm getting ready to change the plugs. I've read that un-bolting the front engine mounts to tilt the engine forward makes getting to the rear plugs much easier. This makes sense. But, will doing so put excessive stress on the radiator hoses, intake duct, wire harnesses, and everything else that's connected? Do any of these need to be disconnected as well? Also, do I need to use anything to hold the engine in place once it's been moved forward?

Your suggestions are greatly appreciated!

[ru35angel]

I heard the same suggestion in regards to tilting the engine but figured I have better things to do....so I Changed all six with a small ratchet and without tilting the engine in about 20 minutes...... It is tight but just think about all the extra time you have to watch cartoons....!

[kustomkid54]

I change plugs in all 3 of my GPs and never touch the motor mounts. Takes about a half hour. And you learn new words.

[rubberman]

yeah i think cussing and swearing are the requirements in changing the plugs.

[carnutcass]

Unbolting the dogbones and rocking the engine forward is totally unneccessary. It adds time and trouble to the job. Here's the three tricks everyone who has a '97-'04 Grand Prix should know.

1 - Remove the engine cover bracket bolted to the right side of the engine. It's the large black steel bracket near the firewall. Remove two bolts and one wiring harness clip and it's out. You will have tons of room. Oh, and remove your STB if you have one. This tip assumes that you don't use your engine cover. Even if you do use your cover, reinstallation of the bracket is pretty simple.

2 - Use a universal joint on your socket when removing the plug from the #6 cylinder. The o2 sensor is in the way.

3 - Use dialectric grease on the inside of the plug wire boot to keep the wires from cooking to the plug. They'll be easier to remove next time.

And that's the spark plug world according to Cassidy.

[GTPWarrior]

Get you a small 4 - 6 inch ratches One the has a "BENDING HEAD" (i can't remamber what they're called) it bends ,THE HEAD of the ratchet, and it helps with the tight removal of the back three.

I really hope some one knows what I am talking about. I know what I want to say but its come out all wrong. I sound like my wife (roundy turning thing hahahaha)

[richtazz]

a 6" wobble extension is what I believe you are referring to GTP, and that's the secret to changing the back plugs. It gives you just enough flexiblity without making the socket flop around too much.

[AKWE-gt]

or you could take some electrical tape and wrap it around a universal joint, this helps with the flopping around.

[98whitegpgt]

i agree w/ kid you learn plenty of new words, not all of them good!