Changing spark plugs: What tools do I need?

[jersey_emt]

It's time to change my spark plugs, but I don't have the tools to do it.

I know I need a gapper, but what else do I need?

Also, I've never done this before, anybody want to give me a how-to?

 

[t3ase]

Get a spark plug socket.. They have a rubber coating on the inside to grip the plug and they're made specifically for plugs.. I dunno what size right now but I'm sure someone knows.

 

[changedman]

coat them with anti sieze. to gap them, well you know how to change the gap right?

 

[changedman]

you'll need a wrench extension to get the spark plug socket down far enough. Probably need a 6" extension.

 

[Protege52003]

5/8 socket needed for the P5 plugs....they must be the same in the speed (2.0l)?

 

[t3ase]

coat them with anti sieze. to gap them, well you know how to change the gap right?

I've never coated plugs with any grease.. Whys that so important?!

 

[Protege52003]

least a 3 inch extension needed with the length of the plug socket to get the plugs out........

 

[Protege52003]

I've never coated plugs with any grease.. Whys that so important?!

neither have I, i guess for people who crank the plugs in way above specs, it makes them break easier. i just hand tighten plugs then give them an extra 1/3 turn with the wrench. have never had trouble getting plugs out......

 

[Stormtrooper77]

Pretty much what everyone else has said.

1. Socket for plug
2. Extension for socket (probably 6")
3. Anti-seize compound/grease to apply to the plug threads (you don't want the plug to be seized in there or you're looking at getting it drilled out.
4. DO NOT, DO NOT over tighten your plugs! Do it with a bone cold engine too.
5. The plug boots could sometimes be very hard to remove.

 

[t3ase]

Flat head screwdriver is also useful for "breaking the seal" (prying around the boot) to get the boots off if they're a bit hard to remove.

 

[t3ase]

and some titanium crotched panties.

 

[jersey_emt]

and some titanium crotched panties.

(rlaugh)

 

[Gbourdon]

Titanium crotched panties are key.

You are going to need a 10mm (i think) to remove the coil packs too. They are right over the top of the plugs. I think its 10mm to remove engine cover also.

 

[PaulMP3]

di-electric(sp) grease is good to use in the wire sockets when removing/re-installing them.

 

[jersey_emt]

Yup got a 3" & 6" extensions, and a 10mm socket.

Looks like I need to pick up a spark plug socket and a gapper. Unless there's something else I'm missing?

 

[t3ase]

sparkplugs.

 

[KpaBap]

Anti-seize!
Your engine has an aluminum head which will react with the plug metal and next time you try to take them out you'll take the threads right with the plug.

It's not because of over-tightening (freak)

 

[peepsalot]

yeah, lil' gappin tool, 6" extension, 10mm wrench or socket, 5/8 spark plug socket. I just did it the other day. Easy as pie. My ngk's say to hand tighten, then wrench an extra 1/2 to 2/3 of a turn. I tightened them almost 1/2 turn and that seemed to be enough though. Gapped mine at .32.
I also used a little wd-40 on the plug socket when putting the plugs back in, because, the socket kept wanting to stay attached to the plug, and not the extension.

 

[changedman]

absolutely. Anti Sieze is exactly that. The aluminum head+HIGH temps the plugs get, its not impossible to SIEZE a plug. Thats why its so important.

 

[Protege5Gurly]

If you want .. I have all the tools needed ... I can help ya do it.

Pe@ce