Replace spark plugs (1982 C10 Inline 6, 4.1L)

[Brownie82C10]

My regular truck fix-it place wants way too much money to replace the spark plugs in my '82 Chevy, so I thought I would do it myself. The back four plugs are easy to get to, but the front two are not. Can anyone provide the how-to steps for plug replacement or provide a link to a video that shows the best way to do this? Many thanks.

 

[Charlie]

 

[DBarre]

If you have a/c on the truck it is difficult to get the front spark plug. You'll probably have to loosen or remove the a/c compressor bracket from the engine. Then with the correct spark plug socket and about a 6" extension on a ratchet, you can get the plug out of there. The number 2 plug should be easy with the 6" extension. Hopefully whoever put those plugs in there didn't go crazy tightening them down.

 

[Brownie82C10]

Thanks, DBarre. Yep, I have A/C on this one. I'm not sure I feel confident messing around with that.

 

[DBarre]

Have you worked on cars before? These straight sixes are simple beasts once you get past the emissions stuff.

Try the hardest plug first without moving the a/c bracket. If you can't get it, the hoses have some flex in them and you don't need much room to get a socket in there. You can just loosen the bolts without taking them completely out. I think if you get in there, you'll figure it out.

Pictures are good if you need more specific help.

 

[Brownie82C10]

I've done relatively simple repairs and upgrades on several vehicles through the years, but I wouldn't call myself a mechanic. I would call myself impatient and sorely lacking in time to take on projects like these. My usual fix-it place (a national chain) wants $100 for the labor to change the spark plugs and almost $70 for the plugs. I think both of those charges are outrageous. I bought the plugs I needed for less than $17.

 

[Charlie]

If you are unsure you can do it, find a friend, neighbor that can help you.

 

[Brownie82C10]

I used to have a neighbor — a really good mechanic for the local school district — who worked on this truck and other older vehicles for me, but he's moved away. I don't have anyone else to call on.

Thanks for corresponding.

 

[Frankenchevy]

Spark plug sockets often have a hex shape on the drive side. Sometimes you can slip the socket on the plug, then use a regular open end wrench to turn the socket. This is helpful when a ratchet wont fit on the end of the socket due to clearance issues.