Changing Plugs and Wires

[GaryFenza]

I just picked up 6 Champion platinum spark plugs today, and plug wires down at PEP BOYS. So i was wandering, to change the plugs do you have to crank the engine forward somehow, or do i just have to reach back there to get to the back 3? Thanks

[GTP Dad]

You can do it either way. If you choose to roll the engine then you may need an engine lift to get it back into place. You can change the rear plugs by using a universal and an extension or two. It can be difficult and you may want to wear a set of mechanics gloves just to prevent the cut knuckles. When you pull the wires make sure that you reuse the metal shields over the new ones. And do the job when the engine is cold to avoid heat issues.

[guitarfish]

An engine lift? Which engine are we talking about? I've always been able to pull the engine forward using a tire iron, on the 3800 and also a 3100 engine. Never had any probs doing it that way.

[03impala9c1]

if you want to roll the engine forward to change the rear three plugs remove the top front two motor mounts and let the engine pull forward... then after changing the plugs wither use a long crow bar or engine lift to get the motor back up.
I did it the old fashioned way and just changed them without turning the motor. THe rear passenger plug is easy, the rear middle plug is removable using the spark plug socket and small extension. The rear drivers side plug needs to be removed using the plug socket and a wrench because the 02 sensor is right in the way. put the socket on the plug then put the wrench on the hex part of the socket.

Have fun! Took me about 45 minutes to change the plugs
Jeremy

[jeepgclwj]

I changed my plugs in about an hour and without moing motor forward. It just takes the right amount of extensions and swivels. Its a piece of cake to get the back 3. I got my hands and arms in there and I'm a beefcake..



Goodluck

[GaryFenza]

thanks guys. Im 16 and only 130 pounds, so i think i can my small hands back in there, haha. Thans for the suggestions and help

[guitarfish]

Spark plugs: $15
Premium wires: $45
Grand Prix: $23,000

Dead skin and dried blood all over the firewall because you didn't pull the engine forward to change your plugs: PRICELESS

[eippermx]

I'm with Jeremy, G-fish. I use a deep socket and a 3/8" mini-ratchet swivel-head wrench to R & R my plugs. As for the back plugs, I throw an old sleeping bag on the front end of the car, lie partially across the front end & engine, and patiently change out the plugs. Works for me. BTW, I HATE swapping cyclinder #1's plug.

[900FE_79]

This might seem like a stupid question but as I tried to pull the plug cover off the front plugs last night I could budge them. I have never seen plug covers like the ones on my Gran Prix and the manual says you need a special tool to pull these off.

Are there any tips on how to pull the covers off, especially the back ones?

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by 900FE_79

This might seem like a stupid question but as I tried to pull the plug cover off the front plugs last night I could budge them. I have never seen plug covers like the ones on my Gran Prix and the manual says you need a special tool to pull these off.

Are there any tips on how to pull the covers off, especially the back ones?

Welcome to AF.

Sorry but please check the date of the thread and do not resurrect old ones, any over 3 months unless the OP. Thread closed.

I recommend starting another thread/post addressing the issue and someone will be glad to help out.