surfing

I replaced the rear spark plugs today on my 96 es300 without removing the manifold. With the right extensions it was not too difficult and I am not a car mechanic by any means.

jdang0118

its been along time since you posted this. Not sure if you still follow this site or remember how to remove the three rear plugs. Im getting ready to do mine this weekend and saw your post and wondering if you have any more tricks you can show me to make it easier
thanks

Arsenii

Hello,

Here is how it was possible to swap rear plugs out without taking the Intake Plenum off, but as far as I know, that only worked on older revisions of that engine, which still had spark plug wires instead of coils going to the back. I have a 2000 Lexus ES300 with a newer revision, and from looking at it, I don't really see how it is possible to do without taking the plenum off. On the plus side, it is a good time for some preventative maintenance, like new Plenum and Valve Cover gaskets, maybe some new Vacuum Hoses, depending on the condition of yours. Here is a post about replacing plugs in your car.

Hope this helps and best of luck!

brianmch

Old info is still useful!
Thank you so much for posting this. Will be attempting this weekend.
One thing is that my local blue/gold retailer had all the parts in-stock. Granted, this was the largest retailer that was attached to their regional warehouse, but still, was nice not to have to order them. Prices were competitive with on-line sellers.

SilverSled

Yes changing out plugs on coil pack versions is quite possible without removing the upper intake. You will get numerous cuts from sharp plastic but I've done it many times on 2002, 2004 & 2005 ES300 and 330s. Removing the throttle body and tubing to the air filter I found quite helpful.

It's not rocket science, take your time you can do it.

Arsenii

Well realistically, when the throttle body is off, there is only 4 bolts left that hold the rest of the plenum of the car, I just don't see a good reason to keep it there and risk slicing your hands in half with all the sharp edges when it doesn't take much to remove it completely, you will have to get a new gasket in any case, but to each their own I guess..