In this video i will be replacing the spark plugs on my 2017 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility (PIU). The process is straight forward if all goes as planned! We had a small hick-up with the coil rubber boots(coil-on-plug insulator) cracking, but were able to replace those as well.
When changing your spark plugs, make sure they are gaped properly! I did not show on video, but i checked the gaps on all plugs prior to installing it.
Improperly gaped spark plugs can lead to various engine performance issues. Let’s delve into the details:
Narrow Gap:
When the spark plug gap is too small, it reduces the space available for the air-fuel mixture to ignite.
Symptoms of a narrow gap include:
Engine misfires
Hard starting
Rough idle
Engine hesitation
Poor fuel economy
A spark plug with an undersized gap may appear black or wet due to unburned fuel 1.
Excessive Gap:
Conversely, if the spark plug gap is too large, the spark has to travel a greater distance.
This weakened spark affects engine performance and can result in:
Engine knocking
Rough idle
Misfires
Stalling
Even a lit check engine light may occur 1.
In summary, maintaining the proper spark plug gap is crucial for optimal engine function. Too small or too large a gap can significantly impact combustion efficiency and overall performance.
gap on spark plug - .050 to .057 thousands
spark plugs torque - 133 in/lbs, 11 ft lbs, or 15 Nm
Intake torque - 89 INCH lbs + 1/4 turn, 7.4 ft lbs + 1/4 turn, or 10 Nm + 1/4 turn
All links are below.
Needs:
-torque wrench
-regular wrench
-8mm socket
-5/8" spark plug socket with extension
-spark plugs(our case is Motorcraft SP589)
-coil rubber boots(duralast or motorcraft)
Motorcraft Spark Plugs(6) -
Part #: SP589 (CYFS12YT6) - amzn.to/49ngSIt
1/2 in. Torque wrench - amzn.to/41SZIy2
5/8" spark plug socket w/10" extension - amzn.to/42KosKC
Spark plug boots - Duralast Coil-on-plug Insulator 90070(6 pack) - AutoZone.com
Motorcraft WR6135 Ignition Spark Plug Boot(single) - amzn.to/3PRaT7f
Throttle body cleaner - amzn.to/3VR7kBQ