A quick question about spark plug for the experienced

[explorer1007]

So..it's time to replace the spark plugs. I was gonna buy ford compatible parts but my dad insisted that as long as the length the same, it will work. He wants to use Bosch spark plugs on my explorer but I dont see anything from Bocsh being compatible (2007 V8.) I dont believe it's safe to do so. But he insists that it is fine..so I would like some input from experience mechanic, thanks.

 

[Explorer_PL]

Use Motorcraft only. Read about what you may encounter when doing the job if yours is 07 and you never replaced them yet. How many miles ?

 

[explorer1007]

Ah, I know what can happen (it might break and stuck inside.) Im sorry I didnt make myself clear. What I really want to know is that is it even safe to use bosch even they are not specified for my car. Im arguing with my father right now...I say it is not safe and Im gonna take it to the dealership but he insists it is ok to use the spark plug as long as they are the same length..Im hoping that Im not wrong about this.

 

[fordbluefamily]

I have found other plugs to be garbage in this engine. The waste spark system is harsh on them and for a while Ford even had different plug number for each side of the 4.0.. Trust me, stick with the motorcraft plugs for your engine and use them happily for 100K miles. You can get them on Amazon for a decent price. Other plugs have been the recipe for misfires and melted electrodes.

Edit: I see you have a V8 and probably dont have waste spark setup, but I still recommend motorcraft plugs here.

 

[swshawaii]

He wants to use Bosch spark plugs on my explorer but I dont see anything from Bosch being compatible (2007 V8.)

OP, here's the TSB if you need it.
http://www.revbase.com/BBBMotor/TSb/DownloadPdf?id=142690

And the plugs DESIGNED for your 4.6 3V. Heat range, etc.
https://www.rockauto.com/catalog/x,carcode,1434502,parttype,7212

 

[explorer1007]

thanks guys, my dad changed his mind. We will do it at dealer

 

[SoCal2V]

As others mentioned, use Motorcraft. Autolite (who I'm pretty sure makes the Motorcraft plugs) is fine as well.

The issue with the two-piece design and the electrode shield getting stuck in the head.... It is due to clearance issues between the shield and the cylinder head, and carbon deposit build up between the two. Changing plugs on a 3V engine really isn't that bad though if you can get your hands on an impact gun (it's come in handy several times since then, and I'm not gonna lie I kinda was wanting one anyway). I have a cheap one from Harbor Freight that I bought specifically to do plugs on a friends '08 Expedition a couple years ago. Anyway, making sure first you are working on a cold engine, back each plug out 1/4 turn with a ratchet and then (per the TSB) give a small blast of carb cleaner down in each plugwell, let that sit for 10-15 minutes (I used PB Blaster instead...). Then put your socket and any necessary extensions onto your impact gun and remove them the rest of the way with that.

The truck I did this on had 110K on factory plugs and they all came out like butter. The key is the impact gun, as it applies a hammering/jarring action to whatever is being driven to break it loose rather than the twisting force of a ratchet. Use of a ratchet from what I have figured out is what gets guys into trouble with this job.

 

[explorer1007]

thx

 

[lucasred]

Besides length, you still need to match the heat range. That's very important.
Like most have already said, I prefer Motorcraft or Autolite.

 

[BrianDye]

Do a quick search of "Bosch plugs" on the forum, and im pretty sure you'll see pages of threads of hate. Havent used them myself, because every member on the forum advises against it. Ive always stuck with Motorcraft or Autolite.

 

[portedav]

I've searched the forums and cannot find anything that I am sure applies to my situation.

Today I changed the spark plugs and wires in my 2008 Explorer XLT 4x4. It has 125,000 miles on the original Motorcraft plugs and wires. Other than a slight drop in MPG over the past eight years, I've had no issues, so this was mainly scheduled/preventative maintenance.

The idle was smooth, and during my test drive around the neighborhood, I had no issues. Success?

However, during a 8-9mi drive to the grocery store I had multiple issues with hesitation or stuttering. Usually under acceleration.

Accelerating from a stop I had a slight hesitation or stutter pretty consistently. Under constant speed (est. 40-45mph) I had a smooth ride except twice when the engine speed increased to maintain speed going up hills. One the interstate portion of the drive (approx. 70-75mph) I had a smooth ride only once did I notice a slight stutter.

It almost as if the gas is cutting out. I don't want to diagnose myself, that's why I am here. But, the sensation is not a regular misfire, as if a plug or wire is out, but rather a sudden, very brief loss of power.

I hope this description makes sense. Looking for advice on things I could check. Trying to avoid taking it to the shop for what could be a simple check/fix.

David

Posted this in another thread. Wondering if it could be the Bosch plugs? Should I just spend the additional $25 or so and swap for a set of Motorcraft plugs?

David

 

[fordbluefamily]

Could be. I would not have used Bosch. I once burned a set of them in a focus in under 10 miles. Center wlectrode was gone. There are no gains to be had with different plugs in most engines, so I stick with what works in them. Motorcraft or Autolite for my Fords.