How to Replace Spark Plugs in Your Collectible Car

Changing your plugs can be easy or it can turn into a nightmare. If you pull one plug at a time, you will not have to worry about getting the firing order correct. Your plugs should be changed every 30,000 miles or about three years, whichever comes first. If you are working on a Ford or a Dodge, Autolite plugs are recommended. If you are working on a Chevy, ACDelco plugs are recommended.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 3/8” ratchet
• 5/8” socket
• 13/16” socket

1. Start on one side--either side it doesn’t matter--and carefully pull the plug wire off the plug. Using the right-sized socket, carefully loosen the plug and remove it.

2. Install the ring over the thread of the new plug if the new plugs come with a ring. Screw the plug into the block by hand until you cannot turn it anymore. You should be able to get the plug in at least four or five threads. If the plug will not turn more than a half turn, you do not have the plug started correctly and can strip the block. Take it out and try again.

3. Use the ratchet and correct socket to tighten the plug until you feel resistance. Once you feel resistance, tighten the plug one half turn. Replace the plug wire.

4. Repeat for all plugs. If you are working on a V8, there will be eight; four on each side. A V6 will have six; three on each side. On cars that came with a straight-6, you will have all six plugs in a row on the same side of the block.

Tips & Warnings

• If you remove one wire at a time, and change one plug at a time you will be fine. Always remember, especially in the newer cars, to wait until the car is cooled. You can easily strip a plug or plug hole by trying to remove a plug on a hot engine due to the dissimilar metals in the plugs and the block.