Spark Plugs DIY (if you have the patience)
02-11-07, 05:45 PM
#31
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We actually used a 3/8th extension and a 5/8ths extension, they work fine, but 2 5/8ths extensions would work just as well.
Do not connect them yet, this is just to show that they interlock. The 5/8ths is at left and the 3/8ths is at the right.
Do not connect them yet, this is just to show that they interlock. The 5/8ths is at left and the 3/8ths is at the right.
02-11-07, 05:49 PM
#33
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What you want to do is dump the 5/8ths (16 mm) piece (the larger piece) first into the shaft followed by the 3/8ths (or another 5/8ths) into the each shaft and then put the ratchet on top of it. This will save time in place of using a longer socket which while MIGHT be easier to put in, will not be as easy to get out. The most difficult step is actually to turn the ratchet.
02-11-07, 05:55 PM
#34
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Here we are attaching the top of the ratchet to the far right plug. I recommend if you are not that tall (I am about 5'7") or do not have long arms to use something to stand on as you will need it.
02-11-07, 05:59 PM
#35
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With the right plug, which is actually the most difficult, you can put the ratchet as shown in the previous picture, which is at about the 2 o'clock position or here in the 6 to 5 o'clock position.
HINT: The shorter the handle on the ratchet the easier this will be. I cannot emphasize this enough, especially for the right plug.
HINT: The shorter the handle on the ratchet the easier this will be. I cannot emphasize this enough, especially for the right plug.
02-11-07, 06:02 PM
#36
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THIS IS THE KEY POINT:
You have to take baby steps on the counterclockwise turns. This means at times about 1 to 1.5 positions of the clock and push down hard every time. This is the most grueling part. However, if you take patience with this step, do not get angry, upset, aggravated it will go a lot easier. Just nice little steps. The plug will come out. If you think about it from a perspective of time rather than in terms of effort required it will go much easier.
You have to take baby steps on the counterclockwise turns. This means at times about 1 to 1.5 positions of the clock and push down hard every time. This is the most grueling part. However, if you take patience with this step, do not get angry, upset, aggravated it will go a lot easier. Just nice little steps. The plug will come out. If you think about it from a perspective of time rather than in terms of effort required it will go much easier.
02-11-07, 06:09 PM
#38
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Ideally, you want to hold the handle almost but not quite the same as you did with the 10 mm wrench in order to give a little fulcrum when you turn it. If you do this and you push down hard (get a stool if you cannot reach, do not upset yourself) the plug will turn.
02-11-07, 06:12 PM
#39
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Once loosened, grab that magnetic extension and pull out the plug. This will save you a lot of time.
ANOTHER HINT: We did not do this, but you also may want to put a towel or mat on the passenger side of the vehicle by the engine bay if you have to lean over (you will).
ANOTHER HINT: We did not do this, but you also may want to put a towel or mat on the passenger side of the vehicle by the engine bay if you have to lean over (you will).
02-11-07, 06:16 PM
#42
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Then repeat what you did with the front plugs. I dropped in the plug but remember to use something like a pencil and tape to carefully let them down if you do not have OEM plugs. and then tighten as shown here with the left plug, clockwise rotation. Again remember, just take it nice and easy with slow easy steps. Keep in mind you do not have to change plugs as often, so have patience with this.
Last edited by Lexmex; 07-14-11 at 03:24 PM.
02-11-07, 06:21 PM
#43
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Finally, remember to put back the ignition coils and bolts. The PCV valve hose you can just push into the metal tube that sticks out on the side of the intake manifold (regardless of its clamps) and also remember to replace the bracket and cord on on the accelerator cable (actually the one we took off is related to cruise control). Reinstall the 3 bolts on the engine cover and start up the vehicle. Should have a very high initial RPM (above 1,000) and then it will come down to normal. Done. 
02-11-07, 06:53 PM
#45
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If you have been to Cuernavaca, I am sure you probably know this place, http://www.lasmananitas.com.mx/ but there are some many great Haciendas there. A great place to stop on the way to or back from Taxco.