I have heard that when you change plugs in aluminum heads that the motor should be completely cold. Is this true?
also do you put anti-seize on the plug threads?
thanks,

 

I made sure my engine was cold and yes, I put Anti-seize on the threads before installing them. It took me about 4 hrs to change the plugs and plug wires. This was my first time to do this and it was not alot of fun.....

 

I changed my plugs for the first time a couple of months ago. TN is right, it 'ain't' no fun--took me 4.5 hours.

Yes, I used Lubro-Moly, a German, copper-based, high-temp anti-sieze on the threads. Don't get any on the firing end. The plugs are only held in with 4-5 threads of the aluminum heads. I don't trust a torque wrench(blasphemy!) on these plugs--too many angles and too difficult. Run them in snug/finger-tight and then 1/16th of a turn more.

Good luck,

Dan

 

Thanx! Sounds like it'll be a blast.

 

That doesnt sound like fun.
Where exactly are the spark plugs to a 98 4.6?
do i need special tools?

thanks alot!

 

When is it time to put new plugs in.

 

OE plugs are usually Autolite platinums. They should last 50,000-70,000 miles.

Basically drive them until you get a misfire and/or fuel economy starts to suffer. Then it's time for new wires/plugs.

I have 52,000 miles now and had 1 plug/wire replaced due to a misfire at about 35,000 miles. No trouble yet but I have new plugs waiting to go in (autolite platinum pro - has platinum on both electrodes).

(on 98' 4.6) Follow your ignition wires from the coil packs at the front of the motor to the plugs which are on the top of the motor between the heads and intake manifolds more-or-less and about 4 inches down a hole.