96 Monte Carlo z34 DOHC 3.4 problems

[96MonteCarlo34]

First off: It has 57,980 miles on it. Never had its tune up done on it. I am in the process of completing it. Have done an oil change, air filter, fuel filter, 3 front spark plugs.

However, I cannot figure out how to get the rear spark plugs done at all. Been told to remove the intake manifold with the throttle body connected, but having problems disconnecting that. Also, got told to take the dog bone off and rock/pry the motor forward, but watching out for the fan. Have not tried this cause I am afraid of cracking the manifold. Anyone know how to get to the rear three?

Second: in the process of doing this I have now tripped the check engine light. Getting back two codes: Oxygen sensor is one and second one is multifunction miss fire.

[mrl390]

Tilting the engine forward on the 96 and 97 LQ1s wont help you get to the back plugs. You will have to remove the plenum. I removed the throttle body runner from the plenum when I took it out to do mine. Other than getting to the back bottom bolt on the throttle body runner, its pretty easy to remove.

[96MonteCarlo34]

I was hoping not to have to remove that, but I guess I have to.