Changing Spark Plugs in a 440.

[DAYLEY/CHALLENGER]

Why don't engineers  try to make it a little easier to change plugs?  I know headers are somewhat in the way, but the 2 at the steering box  :pullinghair:are  impossible.  I have some skipping going on, misfiring, coughing and such.  I thought I would start at the plugs first.  Now to see how to get  those 2 out.⁉️

[Chryco Psycho]

Simple up grade , install a Hemi !No issues with plug access !!
 I will still take changing plugs in a 440 over working on a lot of newer cars where changing a simple fan belt can be nearly impossible .
 Try sliding the socket on & using a wrench on the socket

[734406pk]

Try a 13/16" box wrench, may be a short one or a 13/16" spark plug socket with a hex on top that you can get a wrench onto. Getting new plugs back in is even harder. Use a piece of 3/8" fuel hose to start the plug into the threads in the head and then tighten with a wrench/socket. Put a small dot of spark plug anti seize on the threads (only) of the new plugs to keep them from rusting into the head. Good luck!

[cudabob496]

sometimes you gotta modify your existing tools

[DAYLEY/CHALLENGER]

Well, had some success today. Got 2,4,6,8,1,5,7 changed out.  On the passenger side, leave # 2 out until you replace # 4.  #6 & 8 straight forward.  #5 & 7 a little more difficult.  #1 changed , easier to get to from the front.  Leave # 1 out and can feel #3.  That's about it.  7 changed , one left.   Tried socket, wrench, no luck yet.  Can you get to that one from underneath the car?  Ran out of time today....

[Topcat]

sometimes you gotta modify your existing tools

 

Ever try changing a number 7 spark plug on a Hemi with a brake booster?
You have to get very creative.

Once I have the plug loosened, I use a flexable extention on a deep well socket with a rubber insert to hold the spark plug as I remove it. Number 7 can take up to a half hour to extract sometimes.

[67vertman]

I use one of those T-Handle spark plug tools. plus I remove the battery and box, to get more elbow room.

[cudabob496]

have cut a 90 degree swath out of a box wrench circle to get to a bolt.

also, for one plug, had to cut about 5 inch off of a box wrench handle, to get in there.

[DAYLEY/CHALLENGER]

I use one of those T-Handle spark plug tools. plus I remove the battery and box, to get more elbow room.

While I was working on #1, and feeling #3,  I also concluded that if the battery and tray were out of the way, I would have a little more access to #3.  That is for the next time.  Which may be tomorrow, depends how on the weather.   Thanks guys for all the  Info.

[cudabob496]

I'd put battery in trunk

[DAYLEY/CHALLENGER]

Ok. Removed the battery and tray.  Made for better  elbow room as suggested. Moved the wire  holder placed a flashlight in the lower part of the engine bay and could actually see the plug plainly.  Slipped a 13/16 box end in and was able to get on and turn about 1/8th turn  Enough to loosen.  Slipped a tube over the tip and finally was able to,remove it.  Have yet to get the new one in!  Will try tomorrow to jack up the car and see if I can get from underneath.  Even had the wife try with her small hands....no luck.. 

[734406pk]

What brand of headers do you have? Spark plug access sounds terrible! I'm running Heddman's and although not easy, it's not that bad.

[DAYLEY/CHALLENGER]

The headers were on the engine when I bought the car.  I really have no idea what brand they are.  I just know #3 is a PITA.  Excuse my French!

[734406pk]

Ok , maybe Hooker headers or something like that. When it's time to replace them, you will know what not to get. Plug change should not be this difficult.

[DAYLEY/CHALLENGER]

I think it is a combination of the headers and the sterring box.........with all the tubes for the power steering...........and the dipstick..........still....