Can't get #4 plug on 5.4L 3V
 

Swapping my plugs this AM, and ran into a roadblock of sorts. I can't get the plug closest to the firewall, passenger side. I removed stuff to get better access. But I can't get the socket to seat down onto the plug. A bit odd, but is there a trick or something I should be trying?

This is the 2008 version with the SP-509 plugs, the shorter one piece plugs, redesigned heads, if that matters.

I am hoping that I found my misfire issue though, the #3 plug anode was bent, basically gapped about twice as far as should be.

Get something pointed and sharp. Dig in around the plug and then blow out the hole. It's probably dirt and debris.

Thanks, I did blow out the tubes but will try again. It's odd, I just can't get the socket down onto the plug.

Waiting for it to cool down now. I had to stop half way through the job to go run somewhere. I got 1-3 and #5 replaced before bolting it all back together.

It does seem to have fixed the OD low RPM shudder/ miss. I was skeptical that this was an ignition/spark issue. I was hopefully wrong!

It's possible there's something else down in the hole

Generally blowing air down there is sufficient

You might be able to use a smart phone camera back there and take a picture down the hole and verify?

I held a motorcycle mirror and a flashlight back there just to make sure there was a plug in there! I can see the top of the plug. I might try to get a better view. There was a lot of dirt around the head, but I blew everything out. Might try to give #4 another blast. Waiting for it to cool now.

OK, got 7 out of 8 plugs swapped.

I think I figured out what's wrong with plug #4.

Tube dull of dirt.

That went downhill fast!

Finally got it!

Yaaaay!

I was super skeptical but new plugs cured the low RPM bucking in 4th gear.

Sweet! A little persistence paid off :rocker: