Never would have thought a spark plug change would have me worried, especially being an aircraft mechanic!

Dove into it yesterday and came away on top!

Thanks to all who've tackled and shared their insights on the this forum. What a PITA an easy job was turned into.

I changed them on a cold engine, used 1 tablespoon of carb cleaner per hole, worked them back and forth, then prayed as they all came out squeaking.

 

Nice!

How many miles were on them, and what do you normally use for gas? Do you ever use additives?

 

They had 91,000 miles on them. Mostly used Chevron or Shell whichever was cheaper at the time. The only additive used was Chevron Techron every 3-4 months. I ran it in both of the last two fill-ups before changing plugs.

 

Nice work, they look quite clean actually. I'm dreading mine. I have been putting them off for ages. I have 95k on mine.

 

Well done pal.

 

Nice work!

 

Cool! I love reading positive posts, especially ones with all 8 out in one piece!

Mine is at 43K but I bought a Lisle tool "just in case". Gonna tackle it at 50K.

 

To make you feel better, I am at 110k and expect all 8 to come out with the impact method, techron additive, and 89 & 93 octane fuels. Project happens this summer.

 

It's crazy that a simple 'Run of the mill' plug change is an actual project on the earlier 3v's.

 

Congrats man!
Mine's going in the shop next week to get the plugs changed. I've been going back and forth on this, and after getting a quote of $240 including the plugs from a buddy of mine who owns a very reputable shop I'm gunna let them do it. He did an 05 and an 07 last week and went 16 for 16. Hopefully his streak continues!

 

Good luck to all the rest of you guy's too! I like doing all the work on my truck myself. Most of the time it's enjoyable, but having a lump in your throat doing a plug change Glad it's done!

Cheapest I found for someone else to change them was $350 so $240 sounds pretty good. Hopefully he'll keep his streak alive.

 

What years is this a problem with?

ETA: Thanks MGDfan for the info....Glad mine's a 2010

 

Congrats on the 8 for 8!
If you plan on doing plugs, this is the BEST advice. Invest in one of these JUST IN CASE. Its a life saver

 

Same thing on my 07 with 58K miles.
cold engine, no need of penetrant fluid at all.
They all broken loose and remove by finger except one that I put a bit of fluid, wiggling back&forth a couple minute did it.

My truck is work "hard" during summer (pulling my toyhauler). and I don't mind to push on the accelerator either..lol Always run with 87

 

I read the 4.6V should be easier? I have a XL with a little over 61K in her and it's an 04. Just ordered my plugs and been reading A LOT on the subject..lol!!

gonna tackle mine as soon as they come in.