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how do i change the spark plugs


zeifers
05-05-2004, 06:41 PM
for a 1998 grand prix? i look around the net, i just got them and i just guessed that i could take the plug out and put the new one back in, i pulled the wire out and there was no plug? what do i do to change them?

w30olds
05-06-2004, 02:27 PM
Ok,

To change the plugs you'll need to do a few things. First off when changing plugs be sure to only pull one wire off at a time. This will help eliminate putting the wrong plug wire on the wrong cylinder causing a bad thing to happen called misfires. Ok now that's said just take the boot off the plug at the cylinder head.

The plugs are screwed down into the heads and you'll have to use a spark plug socket, or equivilent to remove the old plug. Toss old plug in trash and take the new plug and check the plug gap.

Now take and insert the plug into the cylinder and tighten down. Be sure to hand tighten it at first. Don't want to cross thread them in the head. :nono: Just snug them down and don't overtighten them.

Repeat this for all the -6- cylinders. Work slowly and carefully to avoid messing up. It's not to difficult. Most important is to put the plug wires back in the correct spot.

Enjoy.....

Slade901
05-07-2004, 09:37 AM
If you have not replaced a spark plug before, I would ask a friend or relative and let them walk you through replacing the spark plug, spark plug wires, etc.

You really need to be very careful when installing the new spark plug because you might strip it. The best way to install the spark plug is turn them by hand or with the air of some rubber hose to turn the spark plug in the spark plug hole. If you encounter resistance, back off the spark plug and try again slowly. The spark plug should turn in without too much effort.

With regards to tightening the spark plugs, I use a torque wrench so I won't over tighten the spark plugs or not tighten enough.
If you want to use some anti-seize compound on the spark plug thread so it would not seize and would be easier to remove next time, don't follow the torque specs but torque it well below the required torque specs.
The anti-seize compound would make tightening the spark plug easy and if you follow the torque specs then it have gone past the thread limit and strip it.

Pickerel
08-02-2004, 06:49 AM
Wow!! You two guys did a great job of explaining this task. I am happy to see that even the simplest of jobs gets an expert/professional answer. Great job guys, you really make Automotive Forums a great place to post your questions!

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