Hey!

Just wanted to share my successful spark plug change (I'm pretty pumped about it)! I followed a procedure I found on here, which suggested I remove the PCM and PCM mounting bracket. I changed my engine oil, oil filter, air filter, plugs and POC boots while I was doing this. Got everything back together (no broken plugs!)

Truck fired up easily, went to normal cold start high-idle then settled out. Now, it idles much lower when in gear and the brakes are applied. It actually idled so low my lights dimmed and I thought it might stall out on me. I also notice that my oil pressure gauge reads slightly higher than I have noticed in the past, and I have a squeak/chirp at lower RPM that I did not have before. I used synthetic 5w-20 and a Wix filter. Spark plugs are the Bosch 1-piece design, and COP boots are Standard.

Truck seems to be running fine other than that. Is it possible it is just "re-learning" after having the PCM disconnected? Also, I know the gauge cluster is not really that accurate, just seemed weird its a bit higher than I've ever noticed (but still well withing norm. range).

Thank you for posting everything else on this place especially about the spark plug change out - I'm looking forward to learning more!

 

You get five (5) gold stars for "no broken plugs"! But one demerit for the "Wix filter".


My experience with "re-learning" after overnight battery disconnect - it took several driving cycles before things settled down. But they kept getting better and better. The idle smoothed out, short & long term Fuel Trim declined, gas mileage went up, power improved, and accelerator became more responsive.


Congrats on your success.

 

Haha thanks! My driving has gotten better and better. I actually (following guidance found here) cleaned my MAF sensor and removed/cleaned my throttle body. I could not believe the buildup on the underside of the butterfly. Runs like a top and has much better throttle response after that and seems to be getting better each time I drive it. Squeak is still there, especially after it warms up to operating temp.