Changing Spark Plugs '02 4.6L V8

[DavidS]

I need to change the spark plugs on my '02 Explorer 4.6L V8. Today I removed the engine cover and noticed that nothing looked like on older vehicles I've worked on years ago such as plug wires, plug boots & etc. Can someone walk me through the process? The whole issue of the coil packs I'm not familiar with. Do the plugs need to be tightened to a specific torque? I ask this because my son's 4Runner does have the torque specified. If anyone also knows of an online tutorial with pictures that would also be great. Thanks in advance.

 

[05MONTY]

Plugs are good to 100k . I'll look it up for you...Yes torque them. Remove coil and remove plug. Anti sieze on threads I think...


Dick

 

[05MONTY]

Spark Plugs Removal and Installation

Remove the ignition coil-on-plugs. For additional information, refer to Ignition Coil-On-Plug in this section.
NOTE: Use compressed air to remove any foreign material from the spark plug well before removing the spark plugs.

Remove the spark plugs.
To install, tighten to 18 Nm (13 lb-ft).
Inspect the spark plugs and adjust the spark plug gap as necessary.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.

 

[05MONTY]

Ignition Coil-On-Plug

Material Item Specification
Silicone Brake Caliper Grease and Dielectric Compound
XG-3 ESE-M1C171-A

Removal and Installation

Disconnect the battery ground cable. For additional information, refer to Section 414-01 .
Remove the bolts and the ignition coil-on-plugs.
To install, tighten to 6 Nm (53 lb-in).
NOTE: Apply dielectric compound to the inside of the coil boots before installation.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.

 

[lrm]

Coil over boot plug attachment

Just changed my plugs after 109,000 miles. Seems to have made a difference in performance. I just don't get how that little spring in the boot of the coil over plug can just sit on the top of the spark plug. I want it to snap onto it like a plug wire but pushing down on the coil doesn't give me that reassuring 'click'. Once I tighten the coil over unit down onto the maifold it's on good but can be jiggled if I push on it.

Is that normal? Just wanted to make sure I did this right.