tune up questions

[gman]

i will be doing a tune up on my 93 2.3l ranger soon. i was wondering if any one has changed the spark plugs on the drives side without removing the intake manifold. also is there any value in buying the more expensive spark plugs or wires if you think there is, could you reccomend a brand
Thanks

 

[modelageek]

I have changed them twice without removing the intake. only use autolite or motrcraft plugs and wires. the MC are the best but expensive. i used autolite on mine. the wires have a rigid head with hooks on 3 of the wires that allow you to remove and install them...you need a few extra extensions for the plugs. The plugs come right out an go right in for me, no problem. the wires are a little bit of a pain. make sure you put anti
seize on the plugs

I also would absolutely change the fuel filter.... the fuel filter is neglected on a lot of these trucks..... that can cause the pump to burn out and other issues .....you need a special tool for $10

 

[Ranger SVO]

I've changed the plugs twice and its no problem. Just annoying. You DO NOT need to remove the intake.

For me the secret is the Snap On wobble drive extensions.
http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item.asp?item_ID=67462&group_ID=241

These extensions give me just enough angle so that a straight shot to the plugs is not necessary. I also have two different Snap On spark Plug Boot Pliers, they are a life saver.

Anyway, I can change all eight plugs in my 93 in about 40 minutes. The first set of plugs were put in when the Ranger had about 60,000 miles. I put in a set of Bosch Platinums, they were replaced when the truck had around 140,000 miles with another set.

 

[gman]

Thanks, im so glad i dont have to remove the intake. and i am planing on doing the fuel filter.

 

[tbirdsps]

Just plan on taking your time. I've only changed plugs once on my 92 and the driver's side wasn't that bad with the correct swivel joints. Be careful of the plug wires. If they've been on a long time they tend to stick to the plugs. Give 'em a slight twist first. Then use a dielectric lube on them when it goes back together.

In my case I changed perfectly good plugs at 56,000 miles. It has 109,000 on it now and it's running great so I don't have plans to change them again anytime soon. I did intall platinum plugs at the time. I don't know if it makes any difference or not but 92 was the last year Ford did not use platinum plugs from the factory. I did use Autolite.

If you have a meter go ahead and check the resistance of the wires. I think the correct number is 12,000 ohms per foot. Way higher or lower just buy a new set.