Spark plug removal
Thread Starter
Joined: Oct 2024
Posts: 6
From: Wasgington
Spark plug removal
I have a 2006 GT. I have been doing some reading about removing spark plugs from the 4.6 engine. I am curious if a plug should break is there one spark plug removal tool that is recommended. Also there is some controversy about the best method to loosen the spark plugs. Some people say to use a ratchet, while others claim a impact wrench is the best way to remove the plugs. All information is appreciated.
3rd Gear Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 763
From: PA
I think the 4.6s are more of a threat to blow out the spark plug than break. They may have corrected that by 2006.
The 5.4s had problems with carbon sticking to the tip of the plug and breaking off, so it was better to take those out with the engine hot and the carbon burned off.
The 4.6, I would spray kimball penetrating oil in the hole the day before, then take them out in the morning while the engine is cold cold in the morning...what you are trying to do is not rip the threads out of the aluminum head while taking them out. If you go to tighten it back up and have to stop without the plug torquing correctly, get ready to buy a new coil pack if you let it go without putting an insert in there. You may get by a while like that, but eventually it will probably cause problems.
The 5.4s had problems with carbon sticking to the tip of the plug and breaking off, so it was better to take those out with the engine hot and the carbon burned off.
The 4.6, I would spray kimball penetrating oil in the hole the day before, then take them out in the morning while the engine is cold cold in the morning...what you are trying to do is not rip the threads out of the aluminum head while taking them out. If you go to tighten it back up and have to stop without the plug torquing correctly, get ready to buy a new coil pack if you let it go without putting an insert in there. You may get by a while like that, but eventually it will probably cause problems.
The 3v have issues with the plug breaking due to the long 2 piece spark plug design that captures carbon and separates when removing.
To the OP, expect to break a plug or 2. If you break less, great. Not knowing your mileage makes it really hard to say how difficult a job this will be for you. I have read lots of good things about the Lisle removal tool.
I replaced mine when my engine had 15k on it, so very early on even then I had carbon build up. I used a ratchet, and carbon cleaner around the plugs as I loosened them.
Gentleman's Relish
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 13,187
From: AZ
I have a 2006 GT. I have been doing some reading about removing spark plugs from the 4.6 engine. I am curious if a plug should break is there one spark plug removal tool that is recommended. Also there is some controversy about the best method to loosen the spark plugs. Some people say to use a ratchet, while others claim a impact wrench is the best way to remove the plugs. All information is appreciated.
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Sxynerd
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Jan 30, 2007 12:02 AM