Changing Sparkplugs

Hi There All

On my last service they said that I need to change the spark plugs on the trucks. How easy is it to do and do I need anything special I have a V6 in the truck Thanks

 

Easy peazy
See
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/2nd-gen-diy-maintenance-quick-reference-guide.438945/

and USE this! see below

 

If you’ve never changed the plugs or watched it being done it’s not as easy as some suggest. Sometimes it’s difficult or near impossible to get to certain plugs, sometimes they get stuck and it’s almost impossible to get them out. You can cross thread a plug when installing, creating a major problem. You can accidentally break the ceramic insulator. Even though most plugs are already gapped you need to measure each to make sure they are correctly gapped. I’m not saying it’s a difficult job but you can run into problems if you’ve never done it before. Get a friend to help you the first time or maybe check YouTube for an instructional video.

 

What gets me is they want to charge $150 for labour and I think 50 for parts

 

You can get them for less than $35 at the parts store.
It’s not too hard of a job, some guys use a torque wrench others don’t.
Basic hand tools is all that’s really required.

A dedicated spark plug socket is a BIG help. Tape the socket to the extension, or it might get stuck on the plug when installing it.

- Read precaution below, depending on mileage of what you may run into -

I would recommend pulling the coils/boots FIRST and BEFORE doing any plugs.
If any of them have oil on them, you have 2 options.
1. Ask yourself if you are comfortable, and willing to learn to do valve cover and intake gaskets.
2. Throw it back together and have someone else do it.

Since your truck is a 2013, I would NOT suspect yours to be leaking.

 

You’re lucky you have gen 2. My son has gen 3 v6, and a royal pain, compared to gen2. His plugs, from the dealer, are Denso, and iridium. Do NOT check gap mechanically. Just eyeball it. Both electrodes have a whisker of the iridium, and you take a chance to possibly damage them, …..Now….on yours….
So…do passenger side first, which is easier, and gives you an idea what to do. Drivers side…not bad. Just sorta buried, but, easy enough. And use copper core plugs. Btw, my dealer beat Oreilly price on his plugs. Good luck.

 

Here's a good quality video (and audio) showing the process. On the DS, I did remove the bracket he mentions. Just make sure you get the recommended plugs for your vehicle.

https://youtu.be/i9SXF1Mb7Z4

 

Thanks

 

Danger Will Robinson danger. From your question you have limited automotive experience. Its an aluminum head. Take it to a professional.

 

$150 labor is pretty good. Most dealers quote $300+ labor.

 

I did mine and if you’ve changed out plugs before it’s really not to bad of a job

 

I have changed plugs before but that was on 1970's era cars but nothing like this

 

Good condensed information on that chart.

The chart says to replace(?) the plugs at 30k. Am I reading that right?

 

Yes 30k for 4.0L v6 trucks, many people go longer but that is the recommended interval as they are copper plugs.

 

For that price I'd be tempted

 

That’s what made me do it

 

Yes, But……..see #3 at the bottom of the list.
There’s a reason it’s “so soon”. Some of it has to do with emissions warranty.
And cats aren’t cheap. Emissions work is expensive……who’s paying for it?
You are if you don’t do plugs at 30k

At least that’s what “I” think has to do with the mileage interval.

Anyways, just do them. Play it safe.

 

@stevesnj 10 pager?

 

Just mention the “magic paste” and it’s assured.