I need to replace the spark plugs & wires on a 2002 Explorer XLS.

[jbarton]

I am seriously considering replacing my own spark plugs and wires on my '02 explorer. It has 112k miles and the engine is running a little rough - it sometimes misses and idles poorly.

Here's what I know:
- Get a socket wrench extension
- Carefully remove spark plug
- Brush out the cylinder to remove any debris
- Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of the spark plug
- Tighten carefully - use a tension tester tool
- Connect the wire

Here's what I don't know:
Are there any specific brand of wires and plugs I should buy or stay away from?

The passenger side of the engine has a bunch of stuff on top that I need to remove to get access to the area where the plugs are. Are there any problems with moving that stuff out of the way?

Thanks!

Jonathan

 

[1Aauto]

welcome to the site.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! I've moved your thread into the stock 2002-2005 section. Buy Motorcraft or Autolite plugs.

 

[jasongt06]

I would only use Motorcraft Plugs & Wires.

 

[my1zamboni]

You don't need to go in the top.
Put it on jack stands, take off the front tires and go in through the wheel well (both sides)
Should take you less than 1 hour this way and you don't run the risk of pulling something off by accident.

 

[workman482]

You've got it down pretty pat. I do agree with my1zamboni, go in from the fender wells. it'll make things easier.

There are a couple of things you may want to change to save yourself possible grief when you get into the project.

1st: if you're not sure if you have the right tools, then either borrow a set from a buddy, or use the loan-a-tool program from autozone or advanced. It should have everything you need short of the torque wrench.

2nd: I would blow out the area around the spark plug with either compressed air or canned air before removing the spark plug itself. This is to make sure no loose sand or dirt falls into the cylinder when you remove the spark plug.

I've personally never ran into any problems with either autocraft or bosch spark plugs. I would probably use motorcraft plug wires, but if for some reason you can't get them or are too expensive, bosch wires have worked well enough for me.

 

[05_moutianeer_mn]

My $0.02.
Like the other poster said blow out the spark plug hole with sparkplug intact before removal.
The caned air is a good idea if you don’t have another air source.
Change the plugs only 1st.
Do the wires later if you think you need to.
When loosening the plugs have solid, positive contact with the plug with minimal angle.
Get a real good spark plug socket with good rubber insulation in the interior tight fit on plug is important.
Use extensions, wobblers and or joints to find clearance for Appling torque for loosening.
Use longer ratchets for good torque.
When loosening, go slow and loosen and tighten a few times. Then loosen out.
Install with some , not a lot of copper anti seize compound.
Use autolite platinum or double platinum plugs.
Or install whatever plugs and redo plug change when superior plugs can be sourced.