Hello, and any advice for first tune up?

[rocket_rob]

Hi all, long time lurker first time poster.

Last October I bought a base model 1996 Corolla, 1.6L, 3-speed auto, with ~108K miles. It's in good condition and I think it's a fantastic car for it's age. I've been getting ~26-30 MPG.

I've been pouring over the forums here looking for help and tips. So far, my minor projects include:
- swap front-drivers broken interior door handle with rear door handle. (easy)
- replace light bulb in the center console gear shift (easy)
- removed and cleaned the cabin air fan (not as easy)
- installed magnetic oil plug (no-brainer)
- installed new fuse for rear defroster (previous owner said the element was broken, just needed a fuse. duh!)

I'm an engineer and understand most of the components of an automobile, but I have basically NO experience actually maintaining a car. I have a bunch of questions I'd like to ask about my Corolla, but all in good time!

For now, my next project is to actually work under the hood for the first time. I ordered new spark plug wires, distributor cap, rotor, and PCV valve. Believe it or not, all these parts are still original to the car. (The wires are dated 1996!) From what I've gathered, they need to be replaced. I'll be following this basic guide posted by another forum member.

Is this an easy job for a total noob? Any additional tips you want to share?

Wish me luck!

[Sgt_Lyna]

Shouldn't be that hard, ain't much that can go wrong.

[Mawtin]

Just watch out for the distributor cap. Need to know the firing order

[REN69]

new plugs and a set of NGK wires, if the wires are the originals or even a crappy brand, the NGK's will make a difference.

[rocket_rob]

Originally Posted by REN69

new plugs and a set of NGK wires, if the wires are the originals or even a crappy brand, the NGK's will make a difference.

Previous owner had to buy a new set of plugs in order to pass smog. But the wires are still circa 1996.

I got a set of replacement Denso wires from my neighborhood parts shop. Is that bad?

[REN69]

no actually Denso is OEM toyota on most Toyotas, they're good wires.

[rocket_rob]

cool. job is done. Thanks to whomever posted the DIY guide!

I think the car now runs a bit smoother (hard to tell). Time will tell if it improves gas milage or anything ... can new wires/cap/rotor even improve milage?

Next weekend project on the horizon is cleaning out the throttle and intake.

Also on the list is 4 new struts. But that's WAY over my head. I need to make friends with someone who has a car lift.