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checking plugs and wires

therise21

Well-Known Member
Joined
January 26, 2005
Messages
121
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City, State
Long Island, New York
Year, Model & Trim Level
'97 XLT SOHC
could someone give me a quick run through on how to check the plugs and plug wires? and also if their is a device to check them? trying to cure the rough idle , i think it may be plugs or wires. its a 97 sohc. also would a scanner tell me if i was having ignition probelms? thanks a lot.
 



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Easiest way to test the wires is to have the truck running, pop off 1 at a time from the spark plug end and put your finger in there to feel for the spark, or something metal and watch for it. As far as spark plugs go... i personally dont bother checking them, if u take it out u might as well put a new one in they r cheap. You can inspect them looking for a broken off chunk or the prong missing which would tell u if it is worthless, but u should be able to hear the engine missing anyway. Just go get a set for 12 dollars, and if ur plugs are good leave them alone. If you wanna do it the cheap way, which ive done when low on cash before, take the 6 plugs out get a file and file the prong and tip of the plug to clean it up for a good spark, then regap them. I dont like to use the little gapping circle tool out of habit, i have one of those sets of measured pieces on a ring forget what its called, suppose to be more accurate but who really cares its not a racecar.
 






I don't agree with sticking your finger in to "feel for spark"... 40,000 volts can give you quite the shock, and I wouldn't recommend it. A good way to check your wires is to mist them with water and look for sparks around the boots and such... in the dark makes it alot easier. Depending on your mileage, I would suspect leaking intake plenum O-rings to cause your rough idle, or perhaps a dirty MAF sensor. Spark plugs being a maintenance item shouldn't cause too much of a problem if you are replacing them at regular intervals, and I would rule out misfire causing your idle problem because you don't mention that your check engine light is on.
 






I have a 99 with a soch and i was wanting to replace the plugs and wires. When i looked at where the plugs were located on the passenger side they looked extremely difficult to get to. Can someone tell me the easiest access point to rear monst plug on the passanger side.
 






Take the passenger side tire off and go up through the wheel well.
 






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