Removal Procedure
Notice: Observe the following service precautions:
• Allow the engine to cool before removing the spark plugs. Attempting
to remove spark plugs from a hot engine can cause the spark plugs to seize.
This can damage the cylinder head threads. • Clean the spark plug recess area before removing the spark plug.
Failure to do so can result in engine damage due to dirt or foreign material
entering the cylinder head, or in contamination of the cylinder head threads.
Contaminated threads may prevent proper seating of the new spark plug. • Use only the spark plugs specified for use in the vehicle. Do
not install spark plugs that are either hotter or colder than those specified
for the vehicle. Installing spark plugs of another type can severely damage
the engine.
- Turn the ignition OFF.
- Remove the engine cover. Refer to Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement .
- If you are replacing the engine right bank (rear) spark plugs, perform the following steps:
- Remove the spark plug wire(s) from the spark plug(s). Refer to Spark Plug Wire Harness Replacement in Engine Electrical.
- Remove the spark plug(s) from the engine.
| 3.1. | Remove the windshield wiper motor cover. |
| 3.2. | Rotate the engine for service access. Refer to Rotating the Engine for Service Access in Engine Mechanical - 3.4L. |
Installation Procedure
- Gap the spark plug(s) to the specifications. Refer to Spark Plug Usage .
- Install the spark plug(s) to the engine.
- Install the spark plug wire(s) to the spark plug(s). Refer to Spark Plug Wire Harness Replacement in Engine Electrical.
- If you are replacing the engine right bank (rear) spark plugs, perform the following steps:
- Install the engine cover. Refer to Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement .
Notice: It is important to check the gap of all new and reconditioned spark plugs before installation. Pre-set gaps may have changed during handling. Use a round wire feeler gauge to be sure of an accurate check, particularly on used plugs. Installing plugs with the wrong gap can cause poor engine performance and may even damage the engine.
Notice: Be sure plug threads smoothly into cylinder head and is fully seated. Use a thread chaser if necessary to clean threads in cylinder head. Cross-threading or failing to fully seat spark plug can cause overheating of plug, exhaust blow-by, or thread damage. Follow the recommended torque specifications carefully. Over or under-tightening can also cause severe damage to engine or spark plug.
Tighten
Tighten the spark plug(s) to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).
| 4.1. | Return the engine to the proper position. Refer to Rotating the Engine for Service Access in Engine Mechanical - 3.4L. |
| 4.2. | Install the windshield wiper motor cover. |
