How to access middle spark plug

[Nowers]

I searched messages under "spark plug", but found no answer how to remove and install the middle plug on driver side (Syclone). I've removed the fender well and bought a plug socket with integral U-joint, but the steering shaft is in the way. Must one disassemble the top end of the steering shaft?

thanks in advance,
Dave

 

[TNPhoon]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

Swivel socket and extension. Put both of those on first. May need a 2nd extension to get it to extend past the wheel well so you can turn it.

 

[warmpancakes]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

with these makes it simple

snap on s9721 on the right

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item...&group_ID=1347&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog

snap on fsx620 on the left

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item...&group_ID=1349&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog

 

[Nowers]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

"Swivel socket?" Is that different from a "GM Flex Spark Plug Socket?" I managed to get it on the old plug, but it snapped off the ceramic insulator when I turned it. Are Syclones and Typhoons alike in this design?

Dave

 

[warmpancakes]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

"Swivel socket?" Is that different from a "GM Flex Spark Plug Socket?" I managed to get it on the old plug, but it snapped off the ceramic insulator when I turned it. Are Syclones and Typhoons alike in this design?

Dave

yep, Jack up truck and pull drivers wheel should be able to snake in there :tup:

 

[Icarus-54]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

same motor,of course they're alike.I use a 5/8 box wrench to loosen the plug then a short piece of 3/8 fuel hose to take it out.

 

[cloneman315]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

Socket with box wrench

 

[Chest Rockwell]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

Another vote for socket and box-end wrench. Time consuming (moves in small increments), but eventually effective.

 

[Don W.]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

Box wrench? In there? You guys are gluttons for punishment.

All you need is the middle socket in this link and a long extension. Make sure the socket is seated on the plug. The extension comes out at an angle under the steering shaft. You might need a breaker bar to loosen but use your standard 3/8 drive ratchet to install and use a little never-seize on the threads to make things easy next time.

http://www.amazon.com/Wilmar-Drive-Wobble-Socket-W38161/dp/B000FOIBD4

 

[SY2455]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

Like Don said, This is what I use with my 24" long sears extenion. I don't even take the tire off. Just jack it up and place a stand under it so the truck can't fall. All 6 done in 1/2 hour this way.

 

[BoostedSUV]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

"special tools" are great but for most back yard do-it-yourselfers buying an expensive snap-on tool makes life easier but it isn't necessary. I've probably change plugs 20 times over the years and I just use a standard sparkplug socket, a swivel, various length extenions and 3/8 rubber hose. The #3 cylinder (by the steering shaft) I just use the spark plg socket and put a wrench on the end to break it loose. usually at that point it will come out by hand. Just saying there are other options than buying specialty tools which most people don't need.

 

[Nowers]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

So, I gather that if this can be done without removing the front wheel, it also doesn't require removal of the fender well liner either? No wonder this is taking me so long.

Dave

 

[BoostedSUV]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

So, I gather that if this can be done without removing the front wheel, it also doesn't require removal of the fender well liner either? No wonder this is taking me so long.

Dave

Whell and inner fender removal to make it easier to get to the plugs but the extra steps and time involved make it more trouble than its worth. Most of us just jack the front of the truck up and go in through the rubber inner fender flaps or down from the top when feasible.

 

[Throws]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

Whell and inner fender removal to make it easier to get to the plugs but the extra steps and time involved make it more trouble than its worth. Most of us just jack the front of the truck up and go in through the rubber inner fender flaps or down from the top when feasible.

I'll add that it's easier if you remove the tire, but I'm just lazy like that.

-P

 

[MoJo]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

The most difficult problem is removing the spark plug boots. I use AC Delco spark wire and the boots are TIGHT. I lube the spark plug insulator with silicone grease but they are still tight. The boots on aftermarket spark plug wire may be easier to get off. I removed the heat shields and that makes it easier to change the plugs....I bought a little spark plug boot puller and that makes it easier to pull the boots without destroying them. .

Solution: Use Denso PTF20TT Platinum electrode park plugs and you don't have to change the spark plugs as often (if at all) , unless you have a fouling problem..

 

[BoostedSUV]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

Solution: Use Denso PTF20TT Platinum electrode park plugs and you don't have to change the spark plugs as often (if at all) , unless you have a fouling problem..

I've heard from multiple people that platinum plugs are a "DO NOT USE" for our trucks. I've always used and been told to use Iradium plugs. :dunno:

 

[QuinnSY]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

I found that the previous owner drilled a hole in my wheelwell for spark plug changes. I don't think I would have done it myself but it will make life easy in the future.

 

[MoJo]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

I've heard from multiple people that platinum plugs are a "DO NOT USE" for our trucks. I've always used and been told to use Iradium plugs. :dunno:

That is correct...Iridium spark plugs should be use with a turbocharger and platinum with fuel injection. .

Denso ITF20 Iridium would be the ones to use with a turbocharger and Denso ITF20TT Platinum with fuel injection.

When we first installed the engine, I used AC Delco #2 Rapidfire spark plugs and they worked excellent, although a little hot.. However, since the AC Delco Parts Division was spun off by GM after the bankruptcy, AC Delco Rapidfire fine wire spark plugs are being made by the lowest bidder. Upon examination, AC Delco Rapidfire plugs are not fine wire electrode anymore and do not have a propitiatory alloy shell. They are suspicious in appearance and appear to be the same as standard spark plugs but are sold at a premium price. That is why I switched to Denso Platinum fine wire spark plugs that are made in Japan. For turbocharged engines, the AC Delco Professional Iridium spark plugs are recommended and they are made by NGK in Japan.

 

[Nowers]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

Thanks to everyone who responded (and helped)! I finally got the plugs and new wires in, but it took me a long time.

Dave

 

[Throws]

Re: How to access middle spark plug

Denso ITF20 Iridium would be the ones to use with a turbocharger and Denso ITF20TT Platinum with fuel injection.
...

So what's the difference between those and the oft-reccomended UR5s?

-P