spark plugs

[lovess]

has anyone changed spark plugs? running ok but with 110,000 miles i think they are supposed to be changed! front three look easy, but how do you get to the rear three? the manual says from underneath!

[paulk]

Exactly the same issue: 110 k; easy access to front three plugs; no clue on rear three.

Did you ever get a reply to your thread?

Just dealt with the O2 sensor (bank one; sensor one) in front; very easy (from below); wish I'd done it the first time the "Service Engine Soon" light went on. My Goodyear dealer "couldn't" do it(!) and I won't pay Ford.

Any ideas on those back plugs?

Thanks!

[lovess]

yes, i did change the plugs myself. everyone i talked to said you have to get them from underneath but i figured no way! i removed the plastic air intake plumbing, laid a thick blanket over fender and engine and could reach down to the plugs. got two from drivers side and one from passenger side. change wires while you're at it. i did from top, it can be done!! here's a group you might be interested in, [email protected] good luck, rick

[paulk]

Thanks! Will definitely try that.

The guy at Auto Zone and I were just coming to that conclusion yesterday when we had a real downpour and headed for shelter.

Thanks for the lead to the other site.

Paul

[rhe]

Yes I got at them by removing the wiper motor tray, but be sure to pull the wiper arms off first so they don't snap down and nick the windshield. The plug access is all blind work, so do one at a time so you keep the entry angle fresh in your mind.

[NikM]

I did them from the top as well. The hardest one was the passenger side rear plug, but even that one didn't take long to replace once I figured out how to get to it. No way I was getting my torque wrench down there for that one, though. Just be careful not to over-tighten, as the heads are aluminum (relatively easy to strip). I believe the spec is 11 lb-ft for the 3.8L (per my memory/ reading on cartrackers ages ago, although this is what I just found quickly searching for it).

[adbradley]

I easily replaced my rear plugs from underneath the van. Nothing had to be removed, just needed a long extension on the socket...

[floridatgp]

when you did plugs from under side of van, was the van on ramps and
you laying on your back? or was it on a lift?

[adbradley]

On ramps and on my back. It took 20 - 30 minutes to get them all out and changed. Very easy procedure...

[Mikebox]

Remove the cowling/wiper shelf. Easy access to rear plugs after that.

[wiswind]

I did mine from under the van.....I had it on ramps.....was very easy. You want to look up into the engine compartment from way back.....you will be looking up just in front of the firewall.

That is on my '96.

If you remove the wiper cowl.....remember to reconnect the washer hose.