How to install spark plugs on 08TCH?

[johnjan]

Can someone please provide guidance as to how to install spark plugs on 2008 TCH?

[ukrkoz]

1. 10mm socket, remove bolts securing plastic cover off the top of the valve cover. I don't remember if they are all same length, if not, memorize correct positions
2. you will see wire rack with wires going to coil packs
3. remove 10mm bolts holding rack in place
4. disconnect plugs from coil packs. be careful - clips on plugs are brittle, I broke one right away
5. scoot wire rack off to the side.
6. undo 10mm head bolts and pull ignition coils out; take suitable length extension, spark plug socket, socket wrench, and take spark plugs out. I think spark plug socket is 17mm, but am not sure, I have several sizes and one always fits.
7. take new plugs, and lubricate tips - not electrodes! - with dielectric grease. insert plugs back into plug wells and seats. Hand torque, but carefully, it's aluminum head, so don't strip anything.
8 lubricate coil packs plug tips inside with dielectric grease, reinstall coil packs, make sure they are seated well on spark plugs.
9. lubricate coil packs plugs inside liberally with dielectric grease, reconnect.
reinstall and hand torque all bolts and plastic cover.

[sbp]

Originally Posted by ukrkoz

...
7. take new plugs, and lubricate tips - not electrodes! - with dielectric grease...

Why would you do this?

[ukrkoz]

well, if you look inside any plug in a car, they are already lubricated from factory with that grease anyway
they idea is to waterseal electrical contacts and prevent them from oxidization. esp in harsh environments, like marine applications.
per se, grease does not improve conductivity. it simply creates a barrier to preven elements from damaging contacting surfaces.
you will find this arguable, but i can vouch that i never had any issues with contacts that were lubricated, vs ones that were not.
to make sure - tips are pieces that go into the ignition coil rubber nipple.

[nitronate33]

it doesn't hurt to put a little anti-size on the threads too, they'll come out easier the next time around.

[sbp]

Originally Posted by ukrkoz

...to make sure - tips are pieces that go into the ignition coil rubber nipple.

Now I understand. I thought you were talking about the ground contact on the other end. I agree that this is the right spot for dielectric grease.

Re. anti-sieze- my only reservation in using that is that it throws your torque reading off if you are using a torque wrench. It you are using a 90 degree after contact then you should be OK.