Reaching back plugs, etc.

[ytd1861]

I keep reading so many people working on their cars and I presume you know some method to reach your back spark plugs and valve cover bolts,etc.?

I don't have access to a lift....someday I'll break down and buy a ramp and a pair of jack-stands.

I have big hands and cannot reach my back spark plugs.

I know how to change plugs, wires and I could replace my back valve cover gasket if I could reach it. I'm sick of paying so much for labor rates!

What can be done?

[nos4blood70]

Feel around with one hand first after you pull off the plugs. Find the plug with one hand, place socket on plug with other hand. That's one way to do it blind. Although I am blessed(or cursed) with small skinny hands.

[Trinity]

I find getting the boots off is worse that doing the plugs. Here's a clue on changing plugs, for the back ones leave the wire and plug on the one next to the one you are working on. This will give you a reference for the proper angle and orientation for the new plug. I suggest a boot puller if you intend to reuse the wires.

There's only one that is a pain in the ass, but you will just need to try different angles to get to them.

[ytd1861]

I have heard there are some brackets that can be removed. They are there for removing the engine a mechanic told me.

[00Beast]

There is the engine lift bracket on the back of the engine, it's 2- 13mm nuts to remove it. That makes it a lot easier to access. I have bear-paw sized hands, and I make it work.

For the rear valve cover, you have to remove the alternator and the tensioner bracket that it bolts to.

[nubuilder]

I also had no issues getting at them from the top. I didn't have to remove the lift bracket, but the back plug on the driver's side was the second hardest for me followed closely by the back plug on the passenger's side.

Try to blow them out first as best you can with air. Like others have said, find the plugs first with your hands. When you go to re-install them, find the hole with your fingers first. I think I used an extension to tighten the back driver's side (possibly a 6"). I know I used a swivel-head ratchet.

All in all, a very easy thing to do; unlike some other vehicles with V6's.

[BonneMe]

Just have a few socket wrenches, a couple extensions, and feel your way around. I bought a socket wrench with a hinge bead the head, and it is amazing for tight spots, or where I need to turn anotger wrench against it as it pushes on something solid.

[ytd1861]

Thanks for the tips. I'll get some swivel sockets for sure.

[Trinity]

Thanks for the tips. I'll get some swivel sockets for sure.

I'm not a big fan of swivels for plugs.... be careful or you will snap that plug right off. But if you are going to use one use the better of ones with the ball..... see below.

This is good: https://www.google.com/search?q=Ball+sw ... B250%3B250

This is not: https://www.google.com/search?q=Ball+sw ... B200%3B200

[ytd1861]

Good point Trinity, and I completely agree!

[BonneMe]

http://www.craftsman.com/craftsman-3-8- ... ckType=G23

This is what i meant, it has helped me a lot in tight spaces.

[ytd1861]

OK, I see your point with that.

[DaMaroon]

http://www.craftsman.com/craftsman-3-8-in-drive-full-polish-stubby-flex/p-00944834000P?prdNo=11&blockNo=23&blockType=G23

This is what i meant, it has helped me a lot in tight spaces.

Just for clarification, can you break a plug loose with that?
I have one like it with a really long handle and prefer it over a standard ratchet for breaking. Then the shorter the better. I'm fortunate enough to have a 1/4" air ratchet.

[BonneMe]

I haven't done plugs on a 3800 with that specific one (bought it last year), but they have different lengths as well. It's been very helpful in tight spaces. I've always used a 6-8" ratchet on the back of 3800s though, both my S1 or my brother's S2.