I have a 2001 Lightning with 5,500 miles on it. When do I need to check the spark plugs to be sure they are tight? Also is there any way to prevent one from blowing out? What do I need to do about my transmission to prevent it from letting loose with me, how should I drive it on the street and at the track? I am new to the Lightning trucks and just want to get a feel of them from other peoples point of veiws. Thank you.

 

Funford, I would check the plugs for tightness right now! Put a rachet on them and snug them down and go about an 1/16 to a 1/8 of a turn more. I would'nt worry about the trans to much! And then drive it like you stole it!!! Jim

 

Since it’s a 2001 it would not hurt to have the transmission fluid flushed and refilled with new fluid. Fluid will break down over time even if it is just sitting there. If it hasn’t had an oil change in the past 6 months or so I would highly recommend that as well. Actually it’s a good idea for all the fluids if they have not been changed including the brake fluid. Brake fluid over time will absorb moisture and then can cause corrosion in the lines etc. Good idea to flush it every 2 years regardless if it has just sat there in a garage the whole time or not…

 

I changed the stock plugs on my 2001 at 18,500 miles. I'ts a good thing I did, because one plug was within one turn from launching.

 

I don't agree with this if just checking for tightness!!

Use the above procedure only if you are replacing them with new ones. Or are taking them out for a fuel reading.


I have a question though?
Are the plugs the same on the early ones as the 03 and later heads with more threads?

Never examined one of these heads closely.
thanks
Greg

 

EZGZ, I was going by past experince with my 01 L and a friends 01L. When we checked the plugs they were just finger tight! Jim

 

This issue is one of the big reasons I traded up to the 04.

I want to tow a 24ft enclosed dunebuggy trailer to some sand dunes in Idaho. About 600 miles each way.

I know these trucks are capable of this but I kept fearing the spit.

I know there always seems to be a weak link in every chain.
What will it be on the 04's?
Time will tell.

Smokin, I didn't mean to implie that you gave bad info. I just wanted to make it clear that if they feel tight not to turn them another 1/8 and risk stripping them.
Poor choice of words on my part.