Spark Plugs

[hybridbear]

I want to check on my spark plugs after our 4500 mile road trip to see what they look like. Some have thought that there might be a connection between low mileage cars and dirty spark plugs. Since our car gets good mileage I want to post some pics of the plugs after about 15,000 miles for the sake of comparison.

 

Firstly though, I haven't taken the "hybrid" cover off the top of the ICE yet and I'm curious if those who have can provide a list of tools needed to get to the plugs along with any tips so as to avoid breaking any of the plastic pieces. Thanks!

[lolder]

In the Gen 1 FFH, it just snaps up and off. The coils reach way down onto the plugs and have hold down bolts. You need a deep plug socket with foam to grip the plug and lift it out. Don't know about gen 2.

[GrySql]

Last I looked there were two or three bolts on the side of the cover holding it on. When I get my car back I'll see what is required.

 

As lolder says, each plug has a COP (coil on plug) that needs to removed first, retained with a bolt (7mm usually, it's an odd size).

A deep socket with foam insert (mine has a magnet) on an extension will remove the spark plugs from the cylinder head.

 

There may be a type of anti-seize on your plug threads, don't wipe it off unless you have the exact type to replace it with.

Aluminum heads like my Mustang use Nickel-based anti-seize, the Ford Atkinson engine is all aluminum, block and head.

In addition, the COP's rubber caps normally have a dielectric grease inside them to promote ease of install/removal and waterproofing.

 

More info when I have my car back.

 

 

 

[acdii]

Get a 5/16" or 8mm socket for the bolts, there are 2 or 3 around the cover, there is an electrical fitting on the right side(drivers) of the cover that you will need to remove the bolt instead of the connection since it is taped together. I had also loosened the hose clamp on the TB. Once the bolts are out, the cover lifts straight up, it is held down with rubber cups and pins. Each COP is bolted to the head with an 8MM(5/16") bolt, and then lifts straight up. The plugs are the small socket and you will need an extension. Takes about 15 minutes to take it all apart.

 

I have done it 3 times. I might do the same since I have pics of the plugs to compare to from the other car.