changing spark plugs

[caliraised]

i am gonna change my spark plugs (if i can). the 3 in front are easy but i cant even see the 3 wires in the back. has anyone done their own 6 cyl. before? is there an easy way or what?

[Gimli]

I've done mine and didn't find it that dificult. You gotta have a good sence of spacialization though. Use a 3/8 wrench with a 3 or 6 inch extension and use your hands to locate stuff around. Make sure you do it while the engine is COLD or you'll burn yourself and possibly strip the aluminum head.

Some people remove the coil packs, they say it helps, wasn't necessary for me...

[sunrunner_pei]

It's not that bad. I found it easier with the alternator and coil packs removed, but that's just personal preference. Especially when they're so easy to get out of the way.

I found a wobble extension to be a particular help. :)

[rixGAphx]

I agree with Gimli and SR_P ^ ^ ^.

I think Gimli's as thin as a green bean, so he can reach in there without a problem. :D
I have short thick fingers and thick forearms, so removing the coil pack is a definite aid to me.

Also, get a spark plug boot puller. If the boots have been on there for 5 years, they may be firmly adhered to the plug ceramic.
Better to use the right tool than tear a boot and need new wires (unless you're already doing those, too).
The pullers that look like a large 'C' made of 3/4" wide steel do NOT work; they're intended to reach the bottom of the boot, and you just can't get to the bottom of a boot on a 2.8/3.1/3.4.
Actually, an 8" 90* long-nosed pliers worked best for me.

Even tho the factory wires are numbered, it's best to do only one plug at a time to avoid mis-matching wires and plugs.

I *think* your plugs are to be gapped .050-.060; plugs are now 'factory set', but I would verify before installing.

On top of the rear bracket for the coil pack is another device, something to do with the evaporative system. It has a hidden vacuum line, about 3/8" diameter x 4" in a horseshoe shape. Be careful not to tear this vac line. The replacement is $25 US from GM. Don't ask how I know :roll2:

Finally, put a few drops of silicone lube around the boot before you slip it into place. Makes the boot easier to remove next time.

Good luck.
-Rick

[SPECIALGAGT]

Anyone had very EXCELLENT performance improvement and longevity with some particular brand and type of plug ??

[Gimli]

Originally posted by rixGAphx
I think Gimli's as thin as a green bean, so he can reach in there without a problem. :D

Keep thinking, I was offensive lineman in junior ball...

[sunrunner_pei]

Originally posted by SPECIALGAGT
Anyone had very EXCELLENT performance improvement and longevity with some particular brand and type of plug ??

You can't expect any real gains from plugs alone... If you see an improvement it simply means your old plugs were beyond worn out.

That said, I installed NGK TR55-IX Iridium plugs in my '99 and felt an improvement in idle. When the time somes, they'll be going in my '03.

Stay away from the Bosche +2 and +4 plugs, they don't work well in the N-Body for whatever reason.

[sunrunner_pei]

Oh, for even easier access to the plugs, removing your hood never hurts. :lol:

[caliraised]

thx for the help. i'll do it this weekend

[RocketFast321]

ac-delco is the best plugs to put into a gm car