I've decided to take pics and make easy guides as I upgrade and make changes to my car. The pics were taken with my camera phone so they aren't as sharp as can be. This is the first time changing my spark plugs so if anyone has additional advise please comment and I'll adjust the original post as needed.
Engine: Duratec 2.0L
Difficulty: Easy
Time: < 20 min
Plugs Used: Copper Autolite 104's with .055 gap
Tools: Socket Wrench, 5/8 deep socket (16mm), 5/16 socket (8mm), 3 to 4 inch socket extension, needle nose pliers (used to pull out spark plugs)
Step 1: Clean off engine area to free it from any loose dirt that could fall into the plug holes (I realized I should have done this after I saw some leaves in the way >.>).
Step 2: Using the 5/16 socket remove the screws holding the spark plug boot in place. Also remove the wires that are connected to the boot.
Step 3: Remove the boot by making a twisting motion. Do not rock the boot side to side.
Step 4: Using the 5/8 deep socket and extension loosen the spark plug. Be sure to turn counter-clockwise and do your best to keep the socket steady. At first, use gentle pressure when unscrewing to ensure you don't crack or break the plug (I hear this is bad :thumbdown).
Step 5: Use the needle nose pliers to grab hold of the spark plug and remove from the hole.
Step 6: Use Anti-Seize on the threads and dielectric grease on the boot so you secure the spark plug nicely. Make a scraping motion across the threads as you gently squeeze the Anti-Seize on the threads.
With Anti-Seize applied:
Finally: Place the spark plug back in the hole and tighten using the 5/8 deep socket. Be sure the plug is nice and snug but don't over tighten. Remember, it's not a bolt or a nut, so you don't want to use too much force and risk cracking or breaking the spark plug. Replace the boot and twist it on for a secure fit. Reconnect the wires and screw it back down.
You're Done! :thumbup:
Engine: Duratec 2.0L
Difficulty: Easy
Time: < 20 min
Plugs Used: Copper Autolite 104's with .055 gap
Tools: Socket Wrench, 5/8 deep socket (16mm), 5/16 socket (8mm), 3 to 4 inch socket extension, needle nose pliers (used to pull out spark plugs)
Step 1: Clean off engine area to free it from any loose dirt that could fall into the plug holes (I realized I should have done this after I saw some leaves in the way >.>).
Step 2: Using the 5/16 socket remove the screws holding the spark plug boot in place. Also remove the wires that are connected to the boot.
Step 3: Remove the boot by making a twisting motion. Do not rock the boot side to side.
Step 4: Using the 5/8 deep socket and extension loosen the spark plug. Be sure to turn counter-clockwise and do your best to keep the socket steady. At first, use gentle pressure when unscrewing to ensure you don't crack or break the plug (I hear this is bad :thumbdown).
Step 5: Use the needle nose pliers to grab hold of the spark plug and remove from the hole.
Step 6: Use Anti-Seize on the threads and dielectric grease on the boot so you secure the spark plug nicely. Make a scraping motion across the threads as you gently squeeze the Anti-Seize on the threads.
With Anti-Seize applied:
Finally: Place the spark plug back in the hole and tighten using the 5/8 deep socket. Be sure the plug is nice and snug but don't over tighten. Remember, it's not a bolt or a nut, so you don't want to use too much force and risk cracking or breaking the spark plug. Replace the boot and twist it on for a secure fit. Reconnect the wires and screw it back down.
You're Done! :thumbup: