Going to install Spark Plugs, have some Qs

[Javi]

I bought a T-Handle 5/8" Spark Plug socket. It's about 9 inches tall. Is it long enough to reach some of the plugs on a 2001 GT? I've read up on some of the articles, and I'm having some doubts on this tool.

And where can I get a cheap but decent 3/8" Torque wrench? I know I need this for changing out the plugs, but the only ones I've seen are about $90 or so.

With that said, I'm also not sure if I should just have someone do the spark plugs or do it myself due to price; I'm sure this will be the only time I may change them out (looking to upgrade within 2 years) - How much would someone charge to change the spark plugs?


Thanks for the answers.

 

[Justin03GT]

you'd be better off with a 5/8" spark plug socket, a ratchet and some extensions, 9" is plenty long to reach them, but they are angled towards the back of the car and the rear ones by the firewall may not have the clearance needed to fit the 9" tool in there... its not hard to do, takes all of 20mins if you take your time...

 

[04GT]

I found a cheap torque wrench at Autosource for 25.00 and I bought a 6", 3", and a flexible joint for my socket set. Used all in different combinations to reach all the plugs.

 

[Javi]

What's autosource? A regional auto parts store?

 

[Kilgore Trout]

There is a good article on chaging spark plugs on the bullittarchive. I have posted many good tips on this website about the subject, a search should find them. Search for "silicone dielectric compound" and you will find them.

 

[04GT]

What's autosource? A regional auto parts store?

It's just a parts store like Pepboys or Autozone. Guess they don't have them where you are, eh?

 

[04GT]

Oh yeah, don't forget some anti-sieze compound for the plug threads and the dielectric grease for the ceramic part of the plugs.

You might want to throw a PCV valve in if you're due since you will have to take the upper part of the intake off anyway.

 

[StangGT96]

Get the spark plug socket that swivels. trust me you are going to need them for the last spark plugs. On a related subject yesterday that I took the last spark plug out on the passanger side I found oil residue on the ceramic part of the spark plug and not on the electrode. any ideas? Car doesnt smoke at all. thanx

 

[tjm73]

Defintly use a torque wrench and follow spec. Some people are theorizing that over torqueing is what's causing some people to pop a spark plug from the cylinder head.

If you do a search you will find that many people have experienced this.

 

[CanadaStang]

This should help you out:
http://www.bullittarchive.com/1017.htm

 

[SigmaPride]

I wouldn't go too cheap on the torque wrench...after all you only need it once. Get the clicker type. I got a Kobalt at Lowes for $50-70...can't remember, but it is great...goes 10-100 lbft or whatever it is.

I torque to 13 just like the bullittarchive(about 1/16th turn after hand tight), but with no anti-seize and have had no problems. If you torque them to 12-13...they are not coming out unless you have stripped the threads. Just remember to take them out and put them in by hand before torquing them. Easy does it and engine MUST be stone cold...let it sit over night.