Spark plugs inside; under the intake thinge

[msrdude]

I have a 96 Avalon XL. I replaced the 3 spark plugs outside, which were easy. I am having trouble replacing the other 3 spark plugs inside because the intake thinge is blocking my way. I do not want to remove the intake thing because there is too many things and bolts to remove. I heard that you can replace the spark plugs without removing the intake thing. I am not sure how to do it. Anyone know how to do it? Thanks

[toyomoho]

Suggest a TN history search of posts and checking the internet as others have had this issue with suggested solutions posted. The Avalon uses the same engine as Camry with V6 option and a few other Toyota models. Thus expand your search beyond Avalon.

There are is special socket wrench tool out there to do the job. Others have used a combination of swivel joints and extensions.

[kevdude]

Yep, a couple of extensions and a swivel joint will do the trick just fine. No need to remove the manifold. Just takes a little bit of patience.

[leadsled toy]

It sounds as if our poster might not know what swivels and socket wrenches are based upon his/her description of the intake manifold as an "intake thinge".

If that is the case, please take it to a mechanic or a friend familar with automotive maintenance. Otherwise, the job is simple enough if the right commonly available tools are used and you have familarity with how to use them. Patience is then the key.

[fourwheeler]

I believe a wobble extension set is the proper tools you are looking for.

[miflox]

Msrdude; Do you have a mechanically-inclined friend or neighbor that can help you? In addition to getting the right plugs + tools, I would suggest that you:
1)Double-check the gap on the new plugs. Gapping tool is cheap.
2)Lightly coat the spark plug threads with anti-seize. Available at parts store.
3)Coat the inside of the spark plug boot with dielectric grease.
4)Don't overtighten the spark plugs; you don't want to strip the threads.

[blkavalon]

i was able to do mine with the right size extension. didn't remove anything. surprised how easy it was. make sure to use NGK two tip plugs.

[1990rolla]

Originally Posted by miflox

Msrdude; Do you have a mechanically-inclined friend or neighbor that can help you? In addition to getting the right plugs + tools, I would suggest that you:
1)Double-check the gap on the new plugs. Gapping tool is cheap.
2)Lightly coat the spark plug threads with anti-seize. Available at parts store.
3)Coat the inside of the spark plug boot with dielectric grease.
4)Don't overtighten the spark plugs; you don't want to strip the threads.

theres no need to gap them if you get the toyota recommended dual electrode spark plugs

[allenjh]

Thanks for the info. I just changed the plugs on my 99 Avalon Platinum Edition. The original plugs had 147,000 miles on them and they still looked good. My arm was almost too big to get into the tight spaces to do the rear plugs but perseverance paid off. Thanks for the great information on tooling.

Thanks, Jim

[The Digital MagE]

spring for the bosh iridium plugs, and never change them again.

these work super on my avvy. i torqued them to 30 ft lbs. used pencil lead for anti-seize. i did this during an engine swap so have no idea of how hard it is to cheat the plenum problem. now i'll never know!

[pmesfun]

Stay away from Bosch, just use oem(denso) or ngk. Better just to stick with oem to ensure no problems will arise.

[allenjh]

I used the NGK dual electrode plugs. They are in now and I am sure as hell not going to change them for another brand. I'm confident they will be fine. I am giving the car to my son and he'll get plenty of miles out them.

[pmesfun]

Good stuff, one question though. Were the original spark plugs you pulled dual electrode?

[allenjh]

Originally Posted by pmesfun

Good stuff, one question though. Were the original spark plugs you pulled dual electrode?

Yes, the original plugs were Denso dual electrode plugs. My owner's manual says to only use dual electrode plugs.

[artbuc]

Originally Posted by allenjh

Thanks for the info. I just changed the plugs on my 99 Avalon Platinum Edition. The original plugs had 147,000 miles on them and they still looked good. My arm was almost too big to get into the tight spaces to do the rear plugs but perseverance paid off. Thanks for the great information on tooling.

Thanks, Jim

I also have the 99 Platinum. Just did my plugs a couple months ago at 99k. Used NGK double ground just like the originals. I would love to replace my hub caps but can't find them anywhere. Do you know where you can get them?

PS Sorry to hijack this thread but I don't see too many Platinum posts!