Changing Spark Plugs -79 Corvette
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
Changing Spark Plugs -79 Corvette
Hello,
I am still a vette newbie here.
I wanted to change the spark plugs on my 350 small block. Do I need to go under the car to remove the spark plug shields? Everything is a bit tight from the top side with the exhaust manifold in the way.
Is the bottom side the way to go?
Eddie Lane
I am still a vette newbie here.
I wanted to change the spark plugs on my 350 small block. Do I need to go under the car to remove the spark plug shields? Everything is a bit tight from the top side with the exhaust manifold in the way.
Is the bottom side the way to go?
Eddie Lane
Racer
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 406
Likes: 1
From: Maroochydore QLD
Hi Eddie,
You certainly do need to get the car off the ground or over a pit to change the plugs, the plugs themselves do not have shields, the plug leads do, they are a real pain in the butt to remove, especially around the starter motor but it is worth putting new leads as well as plugs in, in fact I recommend buying a full tune up kit form ZIP or Ecklers and fit all new parts, it is the best $120+ you will spend.
Next, start looking at your Carb, lots to be done on a 31 year old Rochester.
Good luck and dont be afraid to ask.....
Dennis.
You certainly do need to get the car off the ground or over a pit to change the plugs, the plugs themselves do not have shields, the plug leads do, they are a real pain in the butt to remove, especially around the starter motor but it is worth putting new leads as well as plugs in, in fact I recommend buying a full tune up kit form ZIP or Ecklers and fit all new parts, it is the best $120+ you will spend.
Next, start looking at your Carb, lots to be done on a 31 year old Rochester.
Good luck and dont be afraid to ask.....
Dennis.
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 30,995
Likes: 99
From: Ontario
Actually there are heat shields. Most of the plugs will come out without removing them. You will need a ratchet, an extension, a universal joint, another extension, and of course the spark plug socket. The two at the back on the driver's side will have to come out from the bottom as the steering box is in the way from the top.
Racer
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 332
Likes: 1
From: Watkins Glen New York
I just did this last week on an '80.
I did the two rearmost plugs on both sides from underneath and the two in the front on both sides from the top.
On the driver's side, I pivoted the alternator inboard and on the passenger side I removed one heater hose to allow access.
It's a pain, but take your time and remain patient.
The wires and shields are another matter altogether. No fun there.
I did the two rearmost plugs on both sides from underneath and the two in the front on both sides from the top.
On the driver's side, I pivoted the alternator inboard and on the passenger side I removed one heater hose to allow access.
It's a pain, but take your time and remain patient.
The wires and shields are another matter altogether. No fun there.
