First time poster - I just passed 30K miles and need to change the spark plugs per the scheduled maintenance. The shop where I have my vehicle serviced said it would be $95 for labor. I thought that was a bit much so I called a local dealership which quoted me $120. Since this engine requires new plugs every 30K I'd like to save myself the money by doing it myself (if it's not overly complicated) or by installing plugs that last longer.

I've done several searches on the net but haven't found answers to the following questions:

1. Can I use a platinum or other plug that will last longer? If so, are there any performance or reliability issues I should be aware of?

2. How difficult is it to change the plugs? I've looked around the plenum (believe that's what it's called) and noticed 3 bolts holding it down. Can I access the plugs by disconnecting the intake hose and unscrewing those 3 bolts or do you have to disconnect everything and completely remove the plenum?

3. If the latter, then what all needs to be disconnected/reconnected and can it be done by a novice with basic tools?

3. I assume there is some sort or gasket on the bottom of the plenum. If so, is it reusable?

Thanks in advance.

 

Check out these links for a How-To with pictures:

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showth...threadid=13734
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showth...nge+spark+plug

Also be aware that you may have Denso plugs on one side and NGK plugs on the other.

T4R.ORG has more 4th gens there so you may find answers there if not here.

 

who the hell is recomending changeing spark plugs at 30K intervalls?

thats just asinine! (IMO)

 

Toyota is. It's in their maintenance schedule...

 

Thanks for the links. Just was I was looking for.

 

For the V6 only.

 

Toyota does.

 

I've asked these same questions, and the answer really is "no". You can use a better and more expensive plug, but because they designed the ignition system for copper plugs and not Iridium (like the V8) you will still need to replace the plugs every 30k miles. It sucks, but it's a fact for the V6.

 

I would like to knwo how to do this on my 2001 4runner SR5 V6 automatic

 

Get the plugs from your local autoparts store. If you don't have a toolset with metric sockets and extensions buy a set. Proceed to change spark plugs. It is not hard, they are just spark plugs.