Tune up question

[mjbjr25]

I have a 99 explorer 4.0. I replaced the wires and plugs (Autolite). in the few months since,I have had to replace 3 of those plugs due to them being broken or cracked. Could this be a simple issue such as the store maybe dropped them before hand? I am thinking of just replacing all of them again and be done with it but not sure I wanna chance autolite again? I dont know teh difference in all those newer plugs now.

 

[Mike65]

Welcome. Right after my wife & I purchased our current 99 Explorer Sport (4.0 SOHC) I replaced all the spark plugs & wires using motorcraft parts.

 

[C420sailor]

NGK plugs.

 

[mjbjr25]

I see there are several types of plugs. Copper,Platinum etc etc...whats best?

 

[lobo411]

That's a store mishandling issue. I've never had a broken or cracked plug in 20 years of changing them, and I use Autolite exclusively.

 

[swshawaii]

Or installation error. If you don't have the proper tools or apply side force on the socket, the ceramic will break.

Why stray from the time proven OEM plugs that have served many well for so many miles? Motorcraft SP500 FTW.

http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=949946&cc=1354542&jnid=530&jpid=13

 

[mjbjr25]

that is whatI was thinking but I just didnt know. You recommend I go back with autolite plugs?

 

[swshawaii]

Forgot to ask, OHV or SOHC? Both use different plugs.
http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/4_0_Page.shtml

Add Complete Vehicle Specs To Your Profile
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=375816

 

[Explodr94]

that is whatI was thinking but I just didnt know. You recommend I go back with autolite plugs?

Autolite or Motorcraft, they seem to work best on these Ford motors.

 

[mjbjr25]

Or installation error. If you don't have the proper tools or apply side force on the socket, the ceramic will break.

Why stray from the time proven OEM plugs that have served many well for so many miles? Motorcraft SP500 FTW.

http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=949946&cc=1354542&jnid=530&jpid=13

This was done by a certified mechanic. He has been working on my vehicles and my families for over 25 years.

 

[mjbjr25]

forgot to ask, ohv or sohc? Both use different plugs.

ohc

 

[swshawaii]

ohv

Thanks for completing your vehicle specs but that says 4.0 OHC

Still doesn't answer your broken plug mystery. Keep us posted if you find out. GL

 

[mjbjr25]

Any idea what the firing order is on this motor?

 

[swshawaii]

OHV same. Common mistake to cross 5-6-4

 

[mjbjr25]

Thanks. I had it checked today and its a misfire on #4 . So Guess i will just go ahead replace it first and see how it goes

 

[mjbjr25]

I purchased anti seize, but I have never used this. Is it over rated? Use it or not?

 

[Explodr94]

Anti-Seize is a good preventative practice on spark plugs.

 

[koda2000]

Or installation error. If you don't have the proper tools or apply side force on the socket, the ceramic will break.

Why stray from the time proven OEM plugs that have served many well for so many miles? Motorcraft SP500 FTW.

http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=949946&cc=1354542&jnid=530&jpid=13

This. I've cracked a plug insulator or two over the near 60 years I've worked on cars. I never had anyone to blame but myself.

 

[mjbjr25]

thought i would update everyone. I pulled the plug out and it looked fine. And it didnt spell burnt or to much gas.So i replaced it with a new one and the car has been running great since.

Thanks everyone for their advice and help,I truley appreciate your feedback and willingness to help a stranger

 

[Flash]

Here I am, late to the party as usual.

I've cracked heaps of plugs on Explorers but I'm a big, ham fisted *******.

I use NGK, Iridiums. Best plug I've ever used.
But saying that is like standing up in a Baptist tent and saying you're a Muslim.

NGK Iridiums are the recommended plug in Australia probably because we don't really have a regular Motorcraft or Autolite distributor.