I was reading the spark plug installation instructions but they appear to be for 2002 & 2003....does anyone have directions for the 2001 Max. Truthfully the job looks like a nightmare.

 

02/03 the intake manifold has to be remove PITA, but for your year it's not required, much easier shouldn't need a write up.

 

Thank's for the reply....I would not even attempt the 02- 03 job.

 

Here's an excellent write up in the how to section:

http://www.picshed.com/tanman/

The front plugs take 10 minutes to change; the backs are considerably harder. Stretch your back before trying the back ones.

 

I jsut did my spark plugs today. I put some anti-seizing lubricant on the threads, maybe you should do, makes it easier on the threads.

 

Back ones are just about as easy as the fronts, IMO. Cake job. The only thing not listed in the write-up is make to to have a magnet just in case. When I took the middle coil on the back side off I dropped the nut. Easily fixed by using a magnet to pick it up.
Another way to make sure they don't slip off while putting them back on is by putting a napkin between the nut and socket. This takes up the small space between the two and secures the nut inside the socket.

 

You might get leg cramps when changing the rears. I know I did, as did 97Whtse when I watched him do his. Like they said, get a magnet rod. It helps.

 

That, plus a long socket extension and you shouldn't have any problems.

 

I appreciate all of the replies and instructions.

This is a great board.

 

Oh wow, the 5.5 gens look hard.

 

I don't have any of the tools to do the job. Is it worth it for me to buy them? I'm still on my first set of plugs which have lasted 5 yrs. I'm assuming another set will last another 5. I'm thinking it's pita and it will be almost as cheap to get my local mechanic to do it.

 

owners manual are a wonderful thing...its a nice manual...you know, for owners