Tools needed for spark plug fitting?
 

Hi guys I have a week off work so want to fit a new set of spark plugs to my 54 plate Sti.

Can anyone tell me the tools i will need? And also what size gap do i need to give the spark plugs?

Any links to any guides would be helpful too as i have never replaced the plugs before.

Cheers

Ive seen a few good vids on youtube showing you how to do it with helpful tips.

definatly need a mirror and a bit of time on your hands ,the one nearest the battery after removing the battery itself is the easiest the rest you'll need lots of patience!

Oh and a swivel socket drive!

Be warned though,you will get a bout of tourettes:D

Is it harder/easier than changing plugs on a classic?

I feared doing this but once the battery is removed from the o/s and airbox configuration removed from the n/s, with a swivel joint and deep socket it wasn't too bad. Worst issue when doing from above is the deep recesses on the heads can lead you into a false sense of security when removing old plugs, then 'poing' the buggers dropped onto the subframe of something :D

A 10mm ratchet spanner makes it easier to get the coil packs off, especially the one near the drivers strut. A ratchet, 2" extension and a spark plug socket have worked for me, no need for a swivel joint. Make sure you leave the rubber bung in the spark plug socket to ensure you grip the plug when you try and lift them out:thumb:

What size spark plug socket do i need to get? Or are they all the same size?

And what size gap do i need to set the plugs too? The car is runnin 350 bhp, dont know if that makes a difference to the gap required?

I have heard that you need to apply eloctrode grease on the boot of the coil and bottom of spark plug, and also anti seize on the thread of the plug, is this essential?

Cheers

16mm socket iirc and 0.8mm gap. At 350bhp you might want to think about a cooler grade of plug PFR7Bs:thumb:

Thanks mate, I have bought the NGK Iridium IX BKR7EIX plugs

They are heat range 7 so "Cooler running Heat Range 7 - For MILD to HIGHLY TUNED models" :thumb:

PFR7B's