Seems like its gonna be a helluva job to remove the coilover to get to the plugs......i got a manual and intend to do this this weekend......any tips/suggestions while i'm in there?

 

Why are you taking out your coilovers to get to the spark plugs?


It's a simple thing for 5 of the 6 plugs, the one closest to the firewall on the drivers side is PIA b/c the master cylinder is in the way. Move the air intake tube on the pass. side, pop off the coil packs on the block, take the plugs out. The other side just requires moving a few vaccume hoses off and away for a bit, then take off the spark plug wires, pull out the tube thing(get'n technical here) and then pull the plugs. Not much more than a 30 min job that always takes me over and hour.

Any other questions, just ask, it makes me feel smart.

 

I'm not sure if you have some terminology wrong or what, but changing spark plugs on a V6 4Runner is really easy. If you're talking about the coil packs on the passenger side valve cover... they're just a pull away from being off, and the plug is waiting for you under there. All you need to remove the plugs is a 6" extension for your socket set. Please clarify and we can help....

 

Stump and I said about the same thing... a hinged socket piece (that's not the official name) is a great addition to the toolbox and makes that one tough plug much easier. This is a repair that a novice can do and can give you the confidence to do more.... I'd recommend NGK spark plugs or Denso, and it's also a good idea to put anti-seize compound on the threads of the new plug. You can find this in a solid stick form at most auto parts stores. This will prevent the plug from seizing into the head (more or less getting stuck). Look over your old spark plugs for any issues. If you're a novice wrencher a Haynes Repair Manual is helpful and can be bought at many parts stores or found online.

 

Oh yeah I forgot to add the anti-seize thing, that's VERY IMPORTANT. I had an issue when I used my swivel socket(once again not the technical name), it didn't give the torque I needed plus when I went to pull it out I and the socket got stuck and stayed with the plug, not a fun time trying to fish it out, so just be careful.

 

It is called a universal joint if you are looking for one

 

the first time i did this it took about 45min, less next time with this tip. use two spark sockets, 1 w/ a rubber insert to hold the plug and 1 w/o. i had a beyauch of a time getting the socket off the plug after tightening. for the second plug i used the insert with the plug in enough to hold it and start threading it in. then switch sockets and torque it down.

 

damn you beat me to it, been using this setup for years

 

Get factory plugs at minimum. I had a stumble for 3 years with the cheap autolites.