installing spark plugs need help!!!
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 567
Likes: 0
From: Oswego Illinois
installing spark plugs need help!!!
I started to install my ACdelco rapidfire #5's today. I finished the drivers side but the pass. side looks like a bitch. Do experienced Pros :lol: have any tips for me?
Oh yeah I also found out that a couple of the wires were in the wrong spots :cuss That could account for the loss of power I thought I had.
Oh yeah I also found out that a couple of the wires were in the wrong spots :cuss That could account for the loss of power I thought I had.
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 11,671
Likes: 20
From: Lake Wylie SC
Re: installing spark plugs need help!!! (vetteguy216)
Hi Steve, Nice to see some young guys getting in to Vettes. Look back in the archives and you'll find a host of techniques for plug replacement. If I were you, I'd ask Santa for a Helms Service Manual for your Vette, if you don't already have one.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 5,818
Likes: 2
From: Alive and well in Burlington NC
Re: installing spark plugs need help!!! (vetteguy216)
Start by taking the inner fender well off (about 6 screws). Getting the old plugs out is not too big a problem, getting the new plug in #2 is an issue. Some will advise taking the AC compressor off. I use a section of fuel line to to get the threads started under the compressor. For #8 I have a sparkplug socket with a 5/8 section on the back end for the use of an open end wrench.
Oh yeah. Band-aids!
Oh yeah. Band-aids!
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2000
Posts: 83,383
Likes: 87
From: Boston, MA
Re: (Strick)
Hey Scorp, Your toughest one is #2? That's my easiest one. Is it because of your headers?
My #2 was the hardest with the stock manifolds. With the headers I really don't think that there is a hard one at all.
Advanced
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 53
Likes: 1
From: hamilton square nj
Re: (scorp508)
book time on the plugs in an LT1 is a little over an hour. thats .2 or 12 minutes for plugs 1357 and 246 and about an hour for plug number 8. if they have never been changed before or have been over torqued #8 is a Mother!@#$%^. good luck, take your time have band aids on hand for plug 8. make sure to check gaps before installing, and lightly coat the threads with anti-seize. just my .02 worth. :banghead:
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 11,671
Likes: 20
From: Lake Wylie SC
Re: (scorp508)
Hey Scorp, Your toughest one is #2? That's my easiest one. Is it because of your headers?
Well considering you have an LT1 according to your profile and I have an L98 they probably aren't the same to begin with. :)
My #2 was the hardest with the stock manifolds. With the headers I really don't think that there is a hard one at all.
Well considering you have an LT1 according to your profile and I have an L98 they probably aren't the same to begin with. :)
My #2 was the hardest with the stock manifolds. With the headers I really don't think that there is a hard one at all.
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Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 567
Likes: 0
From: Oswego Illinois
Re: (scorp508)
Scorp I think the #5 was going to cylinder 6 and #6 was going to cylinder 5. Im not positive on that I'll have to double check when I get home at work right now. I dont know how the hell you guys can get that #2 plug out I still cant do it. :troll
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 5,203
Likes: 0
From: Las Vegas Nevada
Re: installing spark plugs need help!!! (vetteguy216)
You shouldnt have to remove anything. Disconnect the EGR tube that goes from the area of the AC compressor past the Exaust manifold. to give yourself a little room. Put the plug socket on first then attach your ratched with a 1" extension. Use your left hand to steady the socket and your right hand to wrench it or vice versa which ever is comfortable. Be careful or you will break the plug which is no big deal unless you want to save it. Reinstall the same way. And Expect some blood.
Good luck.
Good luck.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 2,700
Likes: 3
From: Lebanon KY
Re: installing spark plugs need help!!! (vetteguy216)
:iagree: with scorp about #2...unless you know the trick to it. just use about a foot extension and go thru the wheel well. it works perfectly getting the spark plug in and out. and the best part, you don't have to un-hook anything. i can change the spark plugs in my 86 in about 10 minutes. no joke i've done it so many times :crazy:
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 9,884
Likes: 3
From: Magnolia Mississippi
St. Jude '03-'04-'05-'06-'07
Re: installing spark plugs need help!!! (vetteguy216)
found that the pass side works well by removing the engine - wheel sheild to get at the plug... blood always.... and do it when its cool... then have a beer or two.... :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 567
Likes: 0
From: Oswego Illinois
Re: installing spark plugs need help!!! (vinnies87)
Thanks guys I finished the install of plug and wires today.
After the install I checked my timing but disconected the EST with ignition on will this ruin my ECM. Timing was at 4* advance with old wires but after changing them I checked it and timing was retarded 10* whats With that :confused:
I now have the timing at 8* advance with new wires/plugs. :steering:
After the install I checked my timing but disconected the EST with ignition on will this ruin my ECM. Timing was at 4* advance with old wires but after changing them I checked it and timing was retarded 10* whats With that :confused:
I now have the timing at 8* advance with new wires/plugs. :steering:
