Spark Plug Change

[shizon]

Hey guys. Just found this forum and it looks great!! I was hoping you guys could help me out on a some things.

OK, I have a 97 Eddie Bauer 5.0 AWD BLAH BLAH BLAH. It used to be quick and now is slow as a dog. I can't stand it. My fuel economy is squat (13.4 mpg). I used to get 17 or so.

I'm guessing that I need to change the spark plugs. I wanted to know if anyone had an easy step by step and also what kind i should get. I'd like to keep it cheap. I don't want any more power than factory (I have my corvette for that) just the power and performance it used to have.

Also, is there anything else I should do? I bought this used and take really good care of it. I'm getting some pinging now and I'm hoping this is a spark knock or something and the plugs will fix that. Any other ideas?

Thanks gusy

 

[sink]

Welcome, this forum is great. I'm just a basic user.

Spark plugs should not have effect on pre-igintion (ping). Go to the SEARCH link and search on plugs then ping, then do some looking at the threads for several weeks here and 'Under the Hood' for performance and mileage. Tons of stuff has been written recently already on all of the subjects you mentioned. They should give you enough for a couple of hours of maintenance. But feel free to ask us specifics as you go. I am looking to boost my 94 mileage, etc. I fixed my ping from advice here which directed me to the MAS.

 

[DOGMAN]

Welcome shizon!

I think you're on the right track. First thing I'd do is change the plugs. When you pull them, you can see their condition and that should tell you a few things.

I'd stay with the stock Motorcraft OEM plugs, that's what it came with, and probably delivers the best performance and reliability. I'd stay away from the aftermarket "pie in the sky" plugs that claim this and that. My experience is that the OEM plugs work best on a stock or near stock motor.

Now after you change the plugs, and your problems still exist, then sink's suggestion is a good one.

Good luck!

 

[shizon]

How hard is it to change the plugs? (location, etc)

Should I go ahead and change the wires with them?

 

[DOGMAN]

Never changed the plugs on a 5.0 Explorer, mine is a 4.0 V6, but I'm sure it's doable. Just get the right socket, use universal joints or extensions if necessary, remove one, make sure the gap is correct on the new one, put a little antiseize on the threads (or a drop of oil), and screw it in. Don't overtighten, just snug it up. Reinstall plug wire boot and go to the next one.

How many miles on the vehicle?

I'd do one thing at a time. Change the plugs first, and see if that makes a difference. If not, then I'd go to the plug wires.

Chances are the plug wires are ok, but if you're concerned, replacing them is rather inexpensive and easy. Just do them one at a time. I'd use Ford OEM wires as replacements, they're pretty good.

 

[RytM1]

An easy way to access the plugs is through the wheel wells. Just pull the rubber liner out of the way, and its a straight shot to all the plugs. It beats hanging over the fenders.