2004 Explorer 4.6L spark plugs.

[N1265]

So the Dealer wants $392. to change out the spark plugs in my 2004 Explorer 4.6 L with 100k miles.

Needless to say, that's not going to happen.

They confirmed that it is a 2 valve motor, but stated that you needed a "special" thin walled, tapered, spark plug socket to ensure you don't bottom out the socket in the plug well before the plug is actually seated.

I can't seem to find this "special" plug socket on line. Does anybody know what they are talking about ?

They also stated that they need to do an injector flush before removing the old plugs to dislodge any carbon around the old plugs. Is this really nessary ?



Many Thanks.

 

[FordFool2]

I have same engine, same year. I did not use any special socket. It was either a regular spark plug socket or a straight deep well. The tool you have to buy or borrow is a set of locking extensions. Otherwise the socket may hang up on the plug with no easy way to pull it up and out. I found a set a Harbor Freight that work great and the right price.

You will need compressed air to really blow out the spark plug cavity before you remove the plug.

 

[03explorereb]

that's a load of crap. tell you what, i'd do it for half that :>) normal harbor freight socket does it for me but a locking extension is almost a must. not a hard job to do. not fun but what the heck? take your time and be damn careful when reinstalling your plugs that you don't crossthread or overtighten them.

 

[HiImBrian]

When I did all my engine upgrades I went to Advance Auto and spent the money on a GearWrench swivel spark plug socket. It's got a little rubber piece that holds the plug in the socket and helps prevent accidental cross threading. The swivel helps a ton too. That and a couple various extensions and you've got yourself a good 20-30 min project.

Also compressed air really is a must. You'd be amazed at all the sh** that gets caught down in there. Be careful with all your plastic clips as well. They are VERY brittle.

And use Motorcraft plugs too. It really runs best with them.

 

[rmcknight]

no special tools required. you need to remove the air intake tube, thats about it. i used a vacuum to clean up the area prior and after each plug was changed. and i used champion iridium 9204's

 

[esclamada]

So the Dealer wants $392. to change out the spark plugs in my 2004 Explorer 4.6 L with 100k miles.

Needless to say, that's not going to happen.

They confirmed that it is a 2 valve motor, but stated that you needed a "special" thin walled, tapered, spark plug socket to ensure you don't bottom out the socket in the plug well before the plug is actually seated.

I can't seem to find this "special" plug socket on line. Does anybody know what they are talking about ?

They also stated that they need to do an injector flush before removing the old plugs to dislodge any carbon around the old plugs. Is this really nessary ?



Many Thanks.

your dealer is full of BS. I just used the gearwrench swivel spark plug socket, it's magnetic and it has rubber inside to hold the plug properly. Both removal and installation using this socket makes the process a walk in the park. I used it on my 98 lincoln continental and 02 lincoln ls as well with no issues.

if you don't have an air compressor buy a can of compressed air to clean the wells.

http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/we...192-p?searchTerm=spark+plug+socket#fragment-2

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[N1265]

Many Thanks for the quick answers...