I just purchased a 1988, E350 based motor home with the 460 V8. On the positive side, it only has 8,000 miles on it. On the negative side, it hasn't been started in 13 years. I'm trying to replace all of the spark plugs, shoot in some Wesley's Miracle Oil, and turn it over by hand before putting power to it. I can get the rear 6 plugs out from inside with no problem. However, I can't even see the front 2 plugs from any position. Any pointers on how to remove these front plugs?

 

Well not off hand.

Unless socket extensions come into play.

You may need to drop by the Large Vans (E-series) forum for some help.


Here's the quick way to get there.
click the link
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/f...play.php?f=128

 

Thanks! This is my first day on this site and am still getting familiar with the different options . I've re-posted my question on the E series location.

 

I basically have the same rig as yours and did the plugs on mine last year. Yes it's a pain but this is one of those times the Snap-On truck comes in handy. They have an extra long dog leg ratchet with a flex head that seems made for this job. It helps to remove the spark plug heat sheild if you have one but it's not mandatory.

 

I've done this a couple of times on the same model vehicle.

First and second plugs on passenger side are a bugger to reach but it can be done. I got to the second one back by turning the front wheels to the left and approaching from the rear of the front right tire. The first plug can be reached from underneath from the front of the vehicle. I had to put the plug socket on and then attach the rachet extension afterward. Not fun. I vowed to let a dealer do it the next time around.

There are lots of posts on this topic on other forums but no matter how much you read it still comes down to a blind operation done entirely by feel.

 

Thanks for the responses! I spent about 4 hours on it today and finally got them all changed. Tried jacking it up and with the wheels off - still couldn't see, or figure out how to get to the front one on each side from that direction. Crawled all over underneath and couldn't get past the headers. Basically had to tackle from the top. Took the battery out and the air induction hose off from the passenger side, that one wasn't too bad. Drivers side was another story. Had to almost climb into the engine compartment, work my arm, down and around and go by feel. A few scraped knuckles and a little "verbal encouragement" later, had it out.

 

Hello Fose88, i would like to know how your engine start up went, especially after your 460ci sat for 13 years ! was there any problems ? Cheers Jamie.

 

Based on one of the responses above - I moved my question(s) to the E-series forum. Based on your note, maybe I should continue to use this one and the E-series. After turning the engine over by hand a few times, and then installing a new battery, 2 problems:
(1) Turn the key - nothing. Changed out the starter solenoid, still nothing. Jumper across the solenoid and it turns over fine. My thinking is maybe the starter neutral switch? Can I jumper across this - or might there be another issue?
(2) Surprisingly, after 13 years the engine started great, but only runs off of prime (gas I pour in the carburator). I'm thinking stuck float or fuel pump. Any ideas?

 

your heading in the right direction, get some help and check the pump by removing the fuel line and placing it in a bottle, then have your help turn the engine over for a couple cranks to see if the pump is working...if it pumps then check your filter, if that all checks out it could be in the carb....but im leaning towards bad pump or filter....

 

Remove the old gas from the tank and install new premien for start up. 13 year ols gas isn't gas anymore. Some Seaform in there wouldn't hur anything either.

 

What is Seaform? I've not heard of that before.

 

A very good fuel and crankcase additive. Check with your local auto parts store or even Wally World.