I got directed over here from the van forum. My 1999 Mythic Church Van has 67k on it. I saw the TECH Folder about spark plugs. DON'T cross thread them on reinstall.

But I still wonder

1) When should they be changed?
2) Are there special procedures for removal?
3) Always use Motorcraft plugs, right?

I use copper grease on all spark plug threads. I understand that the boots should be replaced, and codes pulled first in case a COP needs replacing.

Any other tips?

 

I change plugs/boots at 50k, use a small dab of nickel anti-seize and torque to 25ft-lbs.
Motorcraft SP479 plugs can be found on ebay for $2.93/ea, free shipping, no tax.
Also, Denso 671-0001 boots are $29.95/10 and 673-6000 COPs are $26.49/ea.
A code for a misfire on a particular cylinder is not always the coil.
A misfire could be moisture in the plug well, degraded boot, cracked plug, faulty injector, wiring to the coil or injector connectors or bad PCM grounding chip.

 

R&T Babich tells the truth. Lots of it. Read his post 3 times.

Last week I just did the spark plugs on my 2007 E350 V10. Let’s call it the Mythic Work Van.

Mine had 315,000 miles on the original plugs and was running rough with lots of codes. It had no moisture in the plug wells, but the boots did have cracks in them.

I used compressed air to blow out the spark plug well after removing the boot, and then sprayed a little wd40 down there. Let it soak 10 minutes minimum.

Then I put the socket on there with the proper length extension and then my DeWalt 1/4” impact. I used light throttle on the DeWalt to unscrew the plug. Worked perfectly. (I learned somewhere that the hammering action is better/safer than raw hand torque).

Reinstall was the scariest part, but not bad.
You ever used a spark plug socket to install a plug and then you can’t get the socket off? That’s the case here, because the plug well is so deep. I overcame this by putting the new spark plug “barely” in the spark plug socket and then thread it in by hand about two turns. Since the plug was only “barely” in there, it was easy to remove the socket. Then I tightened the plugs with a standard deep well 5/8” socket.

I used Autolite plugs because I had them laying around new. I’d use Motorcraft if given the choice.
If you need (or think you need) a coil, get the Denso brand. They’re made in the same factory as the Motorcrafts.

 

1. remove the intake tubing all the way back to the throttle body. This is frustrating the first time so be patient. get a 7mm socket and 8mm and 10mm. Deep and standard. And extensions.

Be gentle on the smaller tubing that goes to the valve cover. Easy to break the connector . Be patient.

2. The wiring harness atop the fuel injector rail is tough. Take the mounting bolts off and then zip tie each side out of the way. You’ll only get about one inch total, so it’ll seem stupid but make sure you do it because it does help a lot.

Enjoy.

 

To paraphrase General Patton, "You magnificent basterd, I read your post!"

And it was glorious, as are these above, and I thank you all. I'll report back once I pull the doghouse and start prep.

 

i can barely keep track of the people in my real life- certainly less so the people here on FTE


besides that I was pretty excited to say “Mythic Work Van” to the guy with the Mythic Church Van.

Incidentally my life position has adjusted to where I need a big gas engine for towing ALONG WITH the ability to carry 4+ people... so I’m looking to get a club wagon like yours, or else maybe an Excursion... are you in/near Florida? Interested in selling/trading?
Had to ask.

 

Ford doesn't call for any antiseize on the plug threads. Antiseize can result in stripped threads on these engines. The plating on the plugs is supposed to prevent seizing.

 

How about ..... NO. I just found it. Give me a few months to get discouraged once I dive into all the projects.
Dually kit
Banks Power Pack
Coilovers for adjustable front lift
Better seats
Move the front seats back, by gum (I'm 6'5")
LED headlights
Killer stereo

 

Agreed and also the torque is 159 inch lbs. on the plugs.