Labnerd |
06-29-2010 10:13 AM |
Yeah, it's not like the 5.4. You have normal plugs, not the multi-piece crap in the 5.4. You don't need to remove the fuel rails although it looks like it would make the job easier. You'll need a universal joint to get to the back plugs and a couple of extensions for the socket drive. You'll remove the COPs first which is held in place with a small bolt. It does not hold the COPs dead tight so don't try to make it do that when replacing the COPs. The plugs are buried in the heads. You'll need to have compressed air to get any trash out of the plug holes before removing them or the crap will end up in the engine and possibly do damage. You will NOT use any anti-seize on the threads or any where else on the plugs in a 4.6. You WILL use a generous amount of di-electric grease on the ceramic part of the plug to seal out moisture. Torque to 28 lbs. Personally, considering the miles, I'd replace the COPs while you have it apart. They can be had on Ebay for cheap and they are as good as OEM. Figure an even $100.00 will buy you a set. Since this is your first time, figure about 4 hours to get the job done. Beware, the aluminum is easily cross threaded so take your time. At your mileage, I can assure you the plugs are a mess. I changed mine at 85,000 and the gaps were huge- up to .020 over spec. Makes ya wonder how it ran and good too. Might consider the PCV system replacement if you haven't changed it out already. Fuel filter should have been changed already. Take a look at the serpentine belt while you have tools in yer hands. Any cracks and it should be replaced along with the idler bearings.
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