This is probably a simple procedure, but How can I get this thing off? I've tried everything short of removing the dash. I have a steering column shifter, and a cup holder on the floor. I have taken that off. Step by step would be nice Thanks!!

It's a '92 xlt sport with a 3.0

 

There are three latches and then pull it down and rotate it out from under the dash. Only one that has given me a real problem had a screw thru the center of it from some aftermarket installer.


2000 XLT Flare Supercab Sport 5.4-Auto-355LS-Tow pkg-Bedrug-Xtang Tonneau

 

i've tried and tried with this dang thing. I just ried to Rotate it out, but to no avail. Should it take extreme force?? It won't clear the dash board. if I should rotate it out, which way, to the drivers side, or the passenger? left down or right? sorry for the questions but I need that thing off there. I've put off getting a tune up for too long. It's too expensive to have someone do it. That doghouse is the only hinderance I have right now. I bought the Chiltons manual specifically for the info on getting it off, and guess what?? It simply says to remove engine cover. Thanks for the help.
Jeremy

 

Don't try it by force. I've removed the cover several times and here's the procedure:

1. remove cupholder
2. remove ABS computer under ashtray (2 screws), let it hang on the wire
3. open the 3 clamps and remove cover slowly

If you don't remove the ABS computer, there's no way of getting it out.

Tom
1993 Aerostar XL Ext. 3.0L
Munich, Germany

 

Cool. Thanks for the help. I Finally got that damn thing off. It's funny though, they sure don't give you hardly any room. What's the best method for getting the plugs out??
Thanks in Advance,
Jeremy

 

Plugs are done with truck on a lift from down under and thru wheel wells and under hood with lots of wobbles and three foot of extension. Thats why you complain so much about the cost.



2000 XLT Flare Supercab Sport 5.4-Auto-355LS-Tow pkg-Bedrug-Xtang Tonneau

 

Here's my brief two cents on plug removal from my recent Saturday morning experience with my 3.0 V-6 Aerostar. First, plan ahead, don't be in a hurry to complete the task at hand. Jack up the front of the van, remove both front tires and let the front suspension hang, remember to secure the van for safety so there is no chance of it falling. Make sure you have a BRIGHT, work light to shine and see exactly what you are doing. I started with the passenger side plugs, the front two are accessed through the wheelwell with a long extension. Take a good look at your plug wires, if they are brittle, worn, etc., you may as well replace them then (as I decided to do, which also included purchasing a new Motorcraft cap and rotor) The back plug on the passenger side was the hardest, very limited access with the heat shield that is there. I got that one from under the van, with a short plug socket, turning it painstakingly slow with an open end wrench. It was a different brand of plug than the others, which told me the tune-up shop that did the work for the prior owner didn't even change it (as well as the back driver side plug) but charged full price from what I saw on a old service invoice. The front two plugs, driver side, were accessed from the top, the rear plug from under the van. Again, having a good, bright work light helps in seeing just exactly how the plug is positioned, and how it needs to come out. Installing the new plugs, I put a dab of anti-seize lubricant on the threads, and a dab of dialetic tune-up grease (clear, looks like Vaseline) on the top of the plug and in the spark plug boot. Make sure you feel the secure "snap" of the spark plug boot engaging the plug. Another tip, keep your hands clean and washed. This will help in getting a good feel on the plug as you thread it in by hand to start (avoiding the cross-thread nightmare) and snugging it securely with the ratchet. Again, the key is taking your time, and knowing you saved mega $ and that it is done correctly. Ed...

 

thanks a hell of a lot. That will help me immensly. I appreciate the post.
Jeremy

 

That thing is a pain in the rear. I can't seem to easily get it back in place. Wouldn't be the first thing on this van that was hard to work on.

 

An easy way to get those sparkplugs started into dark deep holes is to use a short (5 inch long give or take)rubber hose over the top of the plug. Push the hose on where it holds the plug securely. put the plug up to the hole & rotate the hoses lowly. Pull it off after the plug is hand tightened, than use the plug wrench/ratchet. The hose trick also works on removing the plug after you use a ratchet to loosen it. Helps with hot plugs to. I did my 93 4.0 AWD Aerostar with out pulling the inside cover in less than an hour. Three drivers plugs from the front hood.Than passenger side thru fender well with car jacked up & rear plug from below.There I put the socket on & than attach the ratchet. "Freezing weather in Nebraska makes one work as fast as he can."