Spark Plugs

[maps75]

I am changing the spark plugs and wires in my 2001 buick lesabre at 111111 miles. I was able to easily change the front three. I attempted for over an hour to try and get the back three but was unable to even get the boot off much less get a wrench back their.

I am sure there has to be an easier way to do this. Can anyone help me ?

[paulfischer]

I'm assuming that you have the 3.8 engine. Not sure if your set up is the same as mine
I have a 99 Lumina with the 3.8 and its a pain in the ass to get the back ones out.
I take off the front motor mounts, and pull the engine forward a few inches. Than I put a piece of wood between alternator backet and firewall to hold motor in that position. Its helps a bit, but is still a PAIN!.

[sallisonbrown]

Originally Posted by maps75

I am changing the spark plugs and wires in my 2001 buick lesabre at 111111 miles. I was able to easily change the front three. I attempted for over an hour to try and get the back three but was unable to even get the boot off much less get a wrench back their.

I am sure there has to be an easier way to do this. Can anyone help me ?

Paul's right, it is a BIG pain and worse for the LeSabre rear plugs.

Unless you have lots of time, patience and special tools then just take it to one of those $49.95 tune-up places that change plugs. It's a LOT easier if all you are doing it for is normal maint. Make sure that they don't put aluminium shell plugs back in since they tend to weld themselves to the similar metal in the block!

[maps75]

I want to thank you both for your ionput. I really appreciate your help. I did take off the front motor mount bolts although the engine did not move much I did not try using a board to assit me. I ill try that again. See what trying to save a few bucks gets ya. Lots of aggrevation

Thanks again.

['97ventureowner]

Put a little antiseize on the threads before you put the plugs in to prevent them from seizing themselves in the engine. It also makes it easier when you have to remove them in the future.

[Smith1000]

If it is like the '97, you have to slide the heat shields off and then grasp the plug boot and pull it off to get to the plug. The rear ones have little heat shields on them. A mirror might help you see what you are trying to get at. I usually break the ceramic on at least one of the back ones. On the 97, there is enough room to get a socket and ratchet in there. There may not be as much space on the 01. Since you are replacing the wires, you don't have to worry about destroying the old wires if you have to.

[EZFrank]

You need to take the front motor mount off and then rock the car forward and motor will move enough to get tools back there, that how i do those they are a pain.