Last Spark Plug
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Joined: Sep 2002
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Last Spark Plug
I am having trouble reaching the last spark plug on the left side (driver side) rear. I can get the spark plug socket on by going over the exaust manufold. Is there a "special" ratchet to use.
Thanks!
Thanks!
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 13,873
Likes: 3
From: Atlanta GA
Last Spark Plug
On the 4.0L.
Lift the vehicle so the control arm droops and get it from the fenderwell. Putting it back in, you can reach all the way in and thread it in by hand and use a 3/8 six inch swivel head to tighten it. Just takes finesse.
Also, you can reach it from inside the van with the cover removed by laying on the passenger side. Usually more trouble than what it is worth.
The easiest way to reach its mate on the right side is from underneath the vehicle. Gives you a clear shot.
Lift the vehicle so the control arm droops and get it from the fenderwell. Putting it back in, you can reach all the way in and thread it in by hand and use a 3/8 six inch swivel head to tighten it. Just takes finesse.
Also, you can reach it from inside the van with the cover removed by laying on the passenger side. Usually more trouble than what it is worth.
The easiest way to reach its mate on the right side is from underneath the vehicle. Gives you a clear shot.
New User
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 14
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From: Kenmore USA
Last Spark Plug
Yup that back plug on the left side is a bitch. I gave up out of frustration. But when I had to change out the egr valve I was able to get it with a plug socket that has a hex end and a box wrench. Actually was easy with the egr off.
Elder User
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 510
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From: Portland, OR
Last Spark Plug
If this is a 4.0 engine, I get mine off with just the socket and ratchet but the ratchet is a Proto and thinner than a Craftsman. Also, if the socket has a hex head you may be able to slip a wrench over it but that makes turning a bit more tedious.
Mark
Mark
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Last Spark Plug
Well I got it. Boy, What a PAIN! Thanks for all your help on this one. I forgot to tell you that it's a 3.0L engine. At 103000 miles, maybe I won't have to do this again for a while.
Thanks again!
Jay
Thanks again!
Jay
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Junior User
Joined: Aug 2002
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From: Wabash USA
Last Spark Plug
I used a long extension and universal joint, wasn't as bad as the right rear.
Jeff
93 Aero 3.0l
Jeff
93 Aero 3.0l
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Post Fiend
Joined: Jan 2000
Posts: 5,860
Likes: 4
From: Metro Detroit (Redford)
Last Spark Plug
Bummer. I'm faced with the spark plug changeout on my wifes 3.0 Aerostar and I can't even get started because it is some off-sized socket (see my new post today to confirm size) which I figure to be a 15 mm, but not sure. Anyway I have to buy the socket.
FTE Community Team
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,839
Likes: 252
From: Oak Harbor, Washington
Last Spark Plug
I changed the plugs on my '89 3.0l last week. This time, I had a lift available, and the three on the driver's side were easy (with a 3/8" universal and 3' extension!), the front two on the pass. side were not too bad (through the fenderwell, above the tire, just like last time), but I couldn't figure out how I changed that rearmost one on the pass. side.
Finally, I did it from underneath, using a "gearwrench" on the socket. That made it pretty easy. I guess I'm going to have to buy one of those gearwrench sets after all.
Regards,
Al S.
Finally, I did it from underneath, using a "gearwrench" on the socket. That made it pretty easy. I guess I'm going to have to buy one of those gearwrench sets after all.
Regards,
Al S.
New User
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 3
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Last Spark Plug
the first experience i had with a 3.0l aerostar sparkplug change was an emergency tune up performed by a service center. they charged me $96.00 labor just to change the plugs. since then, i have done this my self. i use a socket with a hex end and loosen with a wrench. gear wrench would be great if you have one. as big a problem may be getting the plug wire/boot off without damaging it. consider that next time you try this. this is almost as much fun as changing plugs in a 93 ranger 4 cyl.
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