Changing the Sparkplugs

[bruker]

I'm planning to change the sparkplugs on my `02 this fall but I'm not sure what's the best way to get at the rear plugs. The front six look like they'll be a piece of cake but the rear three look impossible. I used to have a Windstar that you had to get to the rear three by going up from beneath but I'm not sure if that's the way to go this time. Anyone here have experience with changing the sparkplugs?

[jrozanc]

I want to do the same thing. I'm pretty sure that you can remove the coil pack off of the intake (only a couple bolts to remove) and that should give you more than enough room to get the plugs. The service manual says to rotate the engine forward to reach the rear bank. I say BS. Just make sure to label your plug wires to the coil pack so you don't lose timing. This hasn't been confirmed yet, but will let you know in a couple months when my lazy butt gets off the coach to do it.

[bruker]

I too have heard about rotating the engine forward but wouldn't that cause problems with the exhaust system, fuel lines and other connected parts?

[jrozanc]

Amongst other things too like disconnecting it from the rear drive shaft (I have AWD). What engineer pulled this design out of his a$$? That is why I think removing the coil pak is the easiest and less costly route

[meyanny]

jrozanc....were you successful? What was the best option to get to those rear plugs? Long arms??

I need to change the plugs on my 2004....would hate to pay someone to do an easy job!

[Airjer_]

I would wait until the LIM starts leaking. It will before the plugs need to be replaced. Once the intake is out the plugs are a breeze!

Otherwise remove the coil pack. There are 2 13mm nuts on the back side and two 10mm bolts on the front side. Once its out of the way its still a little tight and you won't be able to see what you are doing but it can be done!!

[bruker]

Well I changed the plugs the other day and it really wasn't that bad. I removed the rubber intake hose, rolled the engine forward by using a ratched strap and removing the dog bones, removed the coil pack and found plenty of room to get to the rear plugs.

[courser]

I am about to change the plugs on mine and thought that possible disconnecting the alternator and attack it from the side.

[jrozanc]

Well I finally ended up paying to have it down at my trusted mechanice. $300 for plugs and wires. Expensive...yeah. but it beats working on a car in the middle of a michigan winter.