JMTruck - I didn't have to remove the wiring block on my '98 when I did plugs (see bluecrab post) - you may have to reset MIL codes after you do this job if you pull any vacuum lines to get them out of way - just disconnect battery and turn headlamp switch to "on" position, and wait 5 mins

 

I am ready to do the change tomorrow sunday. I will be replacing the old spark plugs with the Split Fire's that I purchase almost a year ago. This is happening at about the 59k miles mark. So, I am planning to run them for 40k miles and then do a second change at about 100k. By that time I will know if I want to keep using Split Fire's or change to Bosch's Platinum +4.

I will let you know how this old sparks come. Maybe some pictures in case there is something interesting with their condition.

[This message has been edited by JMTruck (edited 01-20-2001).]

 

Has anyone noticed a smoother idle with the BP +4's?

Thanks.

------------------
'00 5.4L 4X4 Lariat (Black/Silver)
'01 F-350 PSD 4X4 Lariat (order this year)

 

I just finished installing the spark plugs and took me about four hours. I went with the Split Fire's so I have to update my signature. I skipped lunch, not too good for me but I was in good momentum at the time in the passenger's side.

Followed bluecrab, seeker333, and others tips but I want to add something. Be sure that the extensions you are going to use for the spark plugs are long enough. I would say that in some of them you will need like 12" or more. I was surprise when I removed the first coil plug to see how deep were the spark plugs. All my extensions worked very well. I end up buying a plug starter from Pep Boys to overcome the difficult location. Very interesting tool.

I left the third coil (front to back, driver side) for last. That one took the same time of three of the less difficult.

They came out very very light brown and seems to be OK with some of them showing some wear.

No pictures. Too busy and tired for this.

Did not use any band aids but got two minor cuts, one in the wrist and the other in a knuckle.

No beer in my projects. Need all the senses in good shape.

The most important, I disconnected the battery at one point for more than an hour and after cleaning up I went back to my home (I did the change at my parents). On my way back I notice loss of power. I am assuming the computer is relearning because if that is not the case I will do something drastic. Before that I can chirped the tires powerstalling and sometimes without powerstalling. Now, no way I could chirp them, no matter what. Idle is smooth as before and sounds OK.

I will keep in touch and let you know if things get better.

And yes I did set the gap correctly to 0.054 inch for this 98 5.4L.

------------------
My Ride: 1998 F150 4x4 Lariat Supercab Flareside 5.4L in Oxford White/gold, ORP, Tow Package, 3.55 Gears.

Modifications:
K&N FIPK
Gibson Supertruck Exhaust System
Stepshield door sill protectors
Performance Accesories 3" Body Lift
Superlift 3" lift blocks
Performance Lift Lips
Gabriel Gas Ryder LT VST Shocks
Daystar Front Anti-sway Bar Polyurethane Bushings
Heckethorn Steering Stabilizer
35x12.5R16.5LT BFG All Terrain KO's
16.5x9.75 American Eagle 589's.

Photos at: http://www.communicomgroup.com/jmtruck

[This message has been edited by JMTruck (edited 01-21-2001).]

[This message has been edited by JMTruck (edited 01-21-2001).]

[This message has been edited by JMTruck (edited 01-21-2001).]

 

After some minor research I remember putting some Shell gas a couple of days ago since there was no Texaco close enough to save me from disaster.

Yesterday I went back to Texaco and then I was able to chirp the tires with and without power stalling. Ok, power is back again.

About the plugs, idle is more than fine, starting the engine is superb even with the original battery after almost 60k miles. As for gas comsumption I will let you know after 1k miles (more or less) in order to have more experience with them. But as far as I can tell it is going to be better. I am estimating around 1mpg better.

------------------
My Ride: 1998 F150 4x4 Lariat Supercab Flareside 5.4L in Oxford White/gold, ORP, Tow Package, 3.55 Gears.

Modifications:
Split Fire Spark Plugs
K&N FIPK
Gibson Supertruck Exhaust System
Stepshield door sill protectors
Performance Accesories 3" Body Lift
Superlift 3" lift blocks
Performance Lift Lips
Gabriel Gas Ryder LT VST Shocks
Daystar Front Anti-sway Bar Polyurethane Bushings
Heckethorn Steering Stabilizer
35x12.5R16.5LT BFG All Terrain KO's
16.5x9.75 American Eagle 589's.

Photos at: http://www.communicomgroup.com/jmtruck

[This message has been edited by JMTruck (edited 01-26-2001).]

 

Was the MPG any better with the new plugs?

 

Date and time of last post:

01-26-2001, 12:00 PM

 

rotts4u, it's been a long time and the truck has gone through many changes. Still a great ride. Right now I am running Bosch Platinum Plus4 spark plugs. I don't remember if I wrote down inputs on the Split Fires performance. But I think that even minor, I've been able to get improvements on all my aftermarket accessories installed. Just don't expect huge changes in the MPG's department.

I will try to update my signature today. I've been more involved in my bike comeback with my new to me but old 1991 KTM 500.

 

Good luck with the KTM JM Truck

 

Thank you, the bike is almost finished.

 

Nice looking KTM

 

At least we know the search feature is alive and well.

 

Yep still working too !!

 

Although this may be the first time I've seen the OP respond back with a 10 year old thread.

 

That was my thought too!