Many thanks to Ray and a few others who had the great tips for spark plug selection and installation on the Duratec. It took me about 3 hours, but I basically did a great job
Someone had the tip about NOT using the spark plug socket when installing new plugs - I followed this advice and know I would have learned this lesson the hard way otherwise.
I used the Autolite APP764s gapped to 0.054. I DID use the hotly debated "anti-seize" and am glad I did. The #3 plug was VERY TIGHT - much more so than the other five! (I had to use my 3/8 breaker bar after going to mass for added insurance). I finally came out.
After all the debate about torque, I figured I'd take Elizabeth's approach and be my own torque wrench. My naive, probably totally hosed opinion is that these plugs go down nice, then they bottom out. An additional 1/16th of a turn and they are done. This is what it says to do on the Autolite box. NOTE TO TORQUE GODS - If this is an insane opinion, be EASY on ME! :rolleyes:
I replaced the plug wires with Motocraft WR-5692 units which fit well.
I also replaced my PCV valve because I was on a roll!
This is a STUPENDOUS website, and I really appreciate all the Contour-geeks on it.
Thank you
Jab
