Hi all,

I noticed the spark plugs in my engine (V8 2nd Gen, '79) are very rusty and I think is a good idea to change them.

But I see that it's very difficult to get them off - the exhaust pipes from the engine block some of them. Do you think is it possible to easily change them from the top, without disassembling anything?

Thanks

 

Some of them are a little tricky to get to,but you should be able to get them without taking anything apart.Use a wrench on the ones that you cant get to with a socket.

 

Universal on your socket will help emensely, as will a socket with a hex body. I sometimes use a wrench on the body of my sparkplug socket to break them loose.

 

If you're running the stock iron manifolds, it's not as bad as it looks. Certain brands of headers can make it a fun job. The right combination of extensions and a good ratchet is all I use. IPF80B, Universal Joint, Impact, Swivel Ball, Lock Button, 2 1/8" this little guy is a godsend, I have a couple I use at work. Everybody's approach is different, I always warm the engine a little to get some heat in the heads. It helps the plugs break loose reducing the chance for problems with rusty plugs. It makes everything hot, but, it has worked for me everytime.

 

Thanks guys, your tips are a godsend to me !

Will get the proper wrench (possibly with a swivel ball) soon and will then let you know how it goes. Surely will be fun!

Thanks!

 

Work done.

Tools used: a simple 16 wrench (the ones with a closed and open side) . 8 new sparks and car started in 0.5 secs (against the 30secs).

I definitely overestimated the job, but I'm extremely satisfied. First time I ever change spark plugs in a car and it went all smoothly. Was just worried to span out the threads but it didn't happen.

Thanks all for your tips!

 

Nothing better than completing a job you have never done before,gives you that feeling of self accomplishment.

 

Exactly, I know it looks stupid and is just changing the spark plug, but actually solving a starter problem and finding the proper plugs has been quite a challenge for a novice like me.

In few years time I'll be looking back at the "mechanic *****" I am right now

 

Haha no,it doesn't look stupid,everybody has to start learning somewhere,and spark plugs can sometimes be a pain,so that is definitely a good start to learning what to do on any car.