S.o.s

[suzieqf150]

A friend and I have spent siginificant time attempting a tune-up (plug & wires) on my 2001 Explorer Sport Trac, attempting plug #6 (passenger side close to firewall)is basically impossible :-( any suggestions?? also now it appears all of the sudden I have a vacuum leak (sounds like Driver side) and it is MISSING....any assistance is greatly appreciated

[shorod]

Welcome to the forum!

As for the spark plugs, I think you'll find these are actually quite easy to do if you jack the front off the ground and support it with jackstands on the frame so the wheels can hang down. Then remove the splash shield and reach through the opening. The plugs will be a straight shot from the opening. This is how I did the plugs on my 2000 Mountaineer with the 5.0L V8, the V-6 should not be any more cramped than that.

While you're looking from the wheel well, inspect for any loose/cracked/damaged vacuum lines. Also, with the wires being eye-level, make sure that all the plug wires are on properly. If it is truely a misfire, you can use a good scan tool with the component parameter function to determine which cylinder is missing. If you pulled any of the air intake plumbing to access the plugs, make sure it is all tight as well.

-Rod