Spark Plugs

[stateofidleness]

Think I may attempt a DIY spark plug change tomorrow and was wondering what the best plugs were (or if it matters), and, if i go to AutoZone, do they have a "lookup" tool in-store that I can use to make sure I get the correct spark plugs?

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/parts/Autolite-Xp-Iridium-Spark-Plug/2000-Porsche-Boxster/_/N-jenuqZ8gctd?counter=0&filterByKeyWord=spark+plug&fromString=search&itemIdentifier=896883_0_0_&_requestid=504483

[tonycarreon]

I stuck with the Beru, but I believe Bosch, AC Delco and Champion also make some...

Check out the MFG site and look for a part # and then ask for that.

[stateofidleness]

couple more dumb questions before I head out to pick them up...

when doing the plug change, do I need to have the fronts on ramps, or do I just need the rear high enough to get the wheels off the back?

and

do i need to disconnect the negative side of the battery before jacking, or will this not affect the alarm system?

thanks

[Bobiam]

This job is not as easy as it appears. Offhand I don't have many thoughts on it, but I advise being really careful reattaching the power to the coils (or one may fall off on the highway like mine did and leave you with a 5 cyl car to get home with).

Also, I wrapped my socket extension with duct tape to almost the diameter of the tube that you reach the wrench into. That way you will avoid wobble that may crack a plug or cause you to cross-thread it. Use a torque wrench.

Re plugs, stay away from parts stores that carry only cheap parts. I forget the recommended brands offhand. I'm away from home where my files are kept.

[Mark_T]

But it's not exactly rocket science either, so if you have even marginal mechanical ability you should be just fine.

Here's a great tutorial:

Pedro's DIY

Pedro... thanks again, man. Can't say that enough.

I used the Bosch plugs and they work great.

You don't need to jack the front. You can jack the rear one side at a time if you like.

Don't disconnect the battery. Why would you have your alarm set while you're doing this anyway?

You do remove the coil packs from the plugs (obviously) but I see no reason to disconnect the wires from the coil packs unless you are replacing them.

Before you start, look for oil leakage from around the tubes. Might as well replace the o-rings while you're in there if they are starting to seep.

I like that duct tape idea. Cross-threading plugs is bad.

I don't use a torque wrench. I tighten them until I feel the crush collar compress. Been doing plugs that way for 30+ years and never had a problem. If you don't have that feel then you should probably use the torque wrench.

Set aside the afternoon to do the job. Sure you could probably blow it off in an hour or two, but relax and take your time. Have a good look around in there and enjoy the process.

Mark

[stateofidleness]

I think I'm gonna order the Bosch plugs online. How much are the coil packs? (looked at Automotion and Pelican. anywhere cheaper than that?)I've had a CEL Misfire all throughout winter and it was suggested that I check my coil packs. I might replace them while I'm under there. I'm trying to DIY a 60k service lol.

I think if I can manage the spark plugs, I'll tackle the O2 sensors next, possibly with cat bypasses at the same time.

Not sure what I was thinking on the alarm thing, just get nervous

To clarify, you just have to get the car high enough to get the wheel off right? You don't actually have to get UNDER the car at any point during the plug swap? it's all kinda, "from the side of the car" type work?