lincolntowncar.org -- Spark plug replacement

Items you need:

  • Lincoln Town Car
  • New spark plugs (8)
  • Spark plug gap checker
  • Socket set with a few long extensions
  • Spark plug socket (5/8 inch)
  • Tube of anti-sieze lubricant
  • Paper towel

    Champion Copper Plus spark plug (from the Champion web site)
    The spark plugs I purchased are Champion Copper Plus, model RS14YC6. They are copper plugs, while it seems from the factory they install platnium plugs. Copper is supposed to perform better, while platinum is supposed to last longer. You decide what you want.

    Gap the plugs to .54 millimeters. Your gap measurement tool should be a little tight on the gap. If gap is too big, tap the electrode to close the gap and measure again.

    Ensure your engine is cool to the touch! Never remove spark plugs from a hot engine.

    The front passenger side seems easiest--start there and work your way back.

    Inspect the area around the plug wire and hole. Remove and debris so it doesn't fall into the hole. Blowing hard a few times usually clears any dirt you can't get with your fingers.

    Pull the spark plug wire from the plug. Twist and pull--don't pull on the wire, only the boot. They can be tight, work it at little and it will come off.

    Get your spark plug socket and extensions into the hole and onto the plug. Loosen and remove the old spark plug. It should get stuck in your spark plug socket and you'll be able to lift it right out.

    Take the plug out of the socket and inspect it. Is it oily? Is it white with ash? Is it a little yellow in color? If it's oily, you may have a leak somewhere--make a note and continue. Your plug should be a little yellow in color and the gap should be close to .54 mm. Look in your Haynes manual for pictures and other information on spark plug conditions.

    Get one of your gapped plugs out and put some of the anti-sieze lubricant on it. You need enough to cover the threads. Too little is not good, when it doubt use more. Make sure it's only on the threads, not on the electrode or on the tip.

    The plug is ready to go in! Take your socket wrench off the extension. Put the plug in the socket and insert it into the hole. By hand, slowly tighten the plug, being EXTREMELY CAREFUL not to strip it. You only get one chance. Once you have a few turns on it, finish it up with the socket wrench. When it's snug, stop. These don't have to be super tight.

    Pull your wrench up and put the plug wire back on. Make sure you push it in far enough--they go pretty far in there.

    Repeat this procedure for each plug until finished!

    Tips:

  • The driver's side plugs are hard to get at. Remove the air intake hose to gain access.
  • Sockets that have a little give to them work great. I use the Metrinch brand sockets.

    When you're all done take your car for a test drive (and take your cell phone!). It should idle smoothly when you start it. If it doesn't, push on all the plug wires to ensure they are seated properly. Record your work in your maintainence records!