1997 explorer spark plugs

[Kobaltic]

I cannot figure out how to change the spark plugs in my 97 explorer. THere is not enough space between the AC unit and the engine. Dropping the engine is not an option. Any ideas? Thanks.

[tch1718a]

I've gotten to them many times on the same side by going through the wheel well with a couple of extensions and a universal joint.

[Johnny Mullet]

Yup! Remove the rubber shield in the fender well and get them puppies out through there. That's how I do them.

[fray97]

Same problem here. I can't believe they would make a car like that. (not as bad as trying to change a water pump in an aerostar van)

[shorod]

Originally Posted by fray97

Same problem here. I can't believe they would make a car like that.

I don't understand this comment. Changing the plugs this way is rather simple, assuming you have access to a jack, jackstands, and common hand tools. You should be able to replace all 6 plugs (or even all 8 in the V-8 model) in less than an hour, including the time to jack the vehicle up and secure it. There are many, many 6- and 8-cylinder vehicles on the road today (ie: pretty much any with a transverse engine) that are much more difficult to change spark plugs in.

-Rod

[fray97]

Originally Posted by shorod

I don't understand this comment. Changing the plugs this way is rather simple, assuming you have access to a jack, jackstands, and common hand tools. You should be able to replace all 6 plugs (or even all 8 in the V-8 model) in less than an hour, including the time to jack the vehicle up and secure it. There are many, many 6- and 8-cylinder vehicles on the road today (ie: pretty much any with a transverse engine) that are much more difficult to change spark plugs in.

-Rod

I can change my plugs in my sunfire in 5-10 mins with no jacks or removing anything. But for my explorer I have to jack it up, remove the components to get to the plugs, curse and swear because there is no room for you hands. I would take mine to a mechanic if there were any in my area with two brain cells to rub together (wrecked my truck because they did not tighten the lug nuts OR put the brake pads on my front passenger side)

[shorod]

Sure, but the Sunfire is a 4 cylinder. I don't think a 4-cylinder engine would power your Explorer very well. I suspect you'd prefer to be able to get out of the way of traffic over being able to change the plugs in 10 minutes.

Wow, sounds like you could use some new mechanics/auto technicians in your area. I wonder how they didn't notice the brake pads were not installed when moving the vehicle around in their shop. Scarey!

-Rod

[97explorersport]

Think you've got problems try changing the plugs on a 5.0 mustang(early years) the plugs are slanted inward towards the strut tower. Ford recomends raising the engine 3+ inches to get at them. Funny thing is a small hole in the inner apron will give you just enough room to get at it too. FORD BUILT/BETTER IDEA..............................?