Looks like it's time to change the plugs and wires (56K in Mileage) and was just wondering what tools (side winder socket wrench??) or any helpful hints used to change plugs and wires in a LT1. Also, do you get to the wires for the opti from underneath or can they be obtained from up top?

Thx! :p:

 

All the plugs can be done from above using a spark plug socket,...couple of different length extensions, and a swivel. It helps to remove the inner fender panels to get a more straight access to the plugs.

As for the wires, the passenger side are a breeze and can be done from the top by reaching under from behind the radiator. The drivers side I did from the bottom. Lay on the ground and reach up between the crossmember and the oilpan. It's a little tight, but can be done. All in all,...it should only take a couple hours. Be careful with the plugs too,...make sure to use some anit-seize on the threads and to hand thread and tighten them first. Aluminum heads don't take to kindly to cross-threading.

 

I assume you have stock exhaust manifolds. The most important "tool" you can have is patience. There will be at least one plug that just seems to not want to go in easily, just don't rush it or get too frustrated.

Wobble extensions are worth their weight in gold. Various lengths will also be useful. Specifically, 1" and 3". A spark plug boot removal tool will make it easier, although it can be done without one.

On the driver side, remove the spark plug wire holders from the block, this wil get everything out of the way. You can do this side rather quickly as not much is in the way. I don't know if you have ASR, but remove it if you do. There are 3 bolts (plus electrical connection) that hold it into place. It is easy to remove and replace.

The passenger side is not so easy. Remove the spark plug wire holder on the front portion of the block. EGR makes it impossible to remove the rear one. The front two plugs are easy. The rear two is where the difficulty rises. The second to rear plug is not too bad. The rear most plug is a serious pain to get in and out. I used a spark plug socket with extenion to get the plug started. once I had the spark plug finger tight, I realized I could not get the socket off because there was not enough room to pull it off. Much cussing was involved.

You must make sure that the engine is cool when you change the plugs. If it isn't, you could damage your heads. Also, the plugs (if they are still stock) can be stuck in the heads. I don't know how much torque it took to get mine out, but it wasn't easy. I don't think they used anti-seize.

Changing spark plug wires:
I am halfway through this step myself. The passenger side is a breeze. Just don't get too excited. Do one wire at a time, make sure you get the correct replacement wire and plug into place. Nice and easy.

I said I was half done, the driver side is the reason. I have no idea where the wires go. They come off the spark plug go down and disappear. I plan on unbolting and setting aside the ac compressor and alternator. I think this is going to take at least one evening so I am putting it off.

 

Do the drivers side first... that way, the passenger side will be a sweet reward! I found the best way to attack the drivers side was to loosen the ASR box and remove the fender shields. I also removed the EGR vacume hoses to get another 1/8 inch of room for the back plug. As for the wires at the opti, I took the belt and the belt tensioner off. One bolt and it gave me enough access from the top to get to all of the wires. Use anti-sieze on the plugs and silicone dielectric on the boots and good luck! :cheers:

 

Thanks for the Input guyz...I'll let you know how it turns out.. I plan on doing it next weekend! Thanks!

 

116: If you find a good way to do the wires, let me know. I was going to do plugs/wires 2 weekends ago, but ended up ditching the wires idea after I couldn't even see where the drivers' side went into the opti.

I am going to have the car up on jackstands and the serp belt off to put my new Camber brace in though....wonder if that would make it easier for a wire install?

Great input on the plug change from the other guys. That rear passenger side plug was the worst for me. I don't see how anyone could do the driver's side without unbolting the ASR.

Dave

 

I agree with everyones advice. Once you have done it once though, it is a piece of cake.:)