04, 4.6 spark plug and wire question

[jcm]

Ok, first off, I am a carpenter, not a mechanic. I haven't worked on cars since I was a kid.
I want to change the spark plugs, and possibly wire on my explorer, 04, 4.6
I think I have located the plugs (under the valve cover), there are no wire on them. Can someone help me out? thanks

Also, is there a archive on this forum where I can search for related threads?

 

[Dan Whitaker]

Your 2004 4.6 has C.O.P. (coil on plug) meaing there is an individual coil on top of each spark plug.

The spark plugs are not under the valve cover. They are on the top between the intake manifold and valve cover.

 

[jcm]

Dan, thanks for quick reply. Yes, after further looking thats what I thought. The COP is black plastic about half dollar size. Can you breifly walk me thru. Thanks
Can email direct if you like jmacyjr@cinci.rr.com

 

[jrford]

as he said
you have to take the coils off to get to them. Be careful the head is aluminum you don't want to mess those threads up. ...i'd remove the coils and maybe squirt some liquid wrench or PB blaster on the plugs, let it sit over night, blow out any dirt down there, and carefully remove them. Someone even said its not a bad idea to use a torque wrench on removal and if it doesn't come out easy leave it. Also anti-seize on the threads and dielectric grease on the boots. 16-19lbs . .double check, use Motorcraft plugs no need spending a bunch of $$$.