When I say I use the ratchet strap for lots of room, I'm not talking about changing plugs

Although the first time you do change the plugs, it's probably better to have as much room as possible. My hands were pretty beat up from banging against the firewall as I wrestled each of the back wires loose.

-Riggs.

 

I could be wrong, but shouldn't the 3.5 be easier? With the 3.8 being a 90* V block, I'd think the heads being wider apart than the 60* V on the 3.5 should give you less space in the back. I guess it depends on the height and size of the other parts too though...

 

I thought the samething, but when I really started looking, that is not the case. Those rear plugs are barried. I think there is more room in the front (where you don't need it anyway), but the engine itself is just as close to the firewall as the 3.8. Plus the 3.5/3.9 have the coil packs shoved back there too, making it even more difficult to get to. I was thinking i'll probably remove the coil pack just to open up the extra space for me to get my big hand back there. LOL

And I looked at my dog bones earlier today, I did not see this second hole everyone is talking about.

 

I finished up my car today. Since I still need to replace the valve cover gaskets, I decided to leave the original wires on for now. I cleaned them all up and they actually look new. I'm going to change the gaskets in the near future so the old wires shouldn't be on there for too long.

Wayne

 

Man i hear you on that the back three on my 03 ss were making me very angry, once some ripping and tearing happened they came free but not without a fight.

 

I was getting pissed too. I was about to get destructive. I did end up breaking a few things but not on purpose. I don't look forward to taking off the back plug wires again whenever I replace the valve cover gaskets. I'm sure I will end up with some more war wounds. My hands are still all cut up.

Wayne

 

I dont know why you guys are complaining. Ever change the plugs and wires on an LQ1? If so you would think the 3800 was a walk in the park to do. Be glad you have the 3800.

 

Wow i remember the first time i changed mine...i looked like i was trying to commit sucide i had so many scratches on my arms. But it gets easyer the more you change them. Only thing is i step it up, i installed 6 E3 spark plugs with MAG Performance 7.5mm wires.

The hardest part are them dang heat sheilds.

 

put a dab of anti seize compound on the plug threads when you install the new ones, and of course dielectric grease on the boots
and all will be happy the next time around

 

I'm really with Matt.... you guys should try to install a 390 with long tube headers in a Torino, or put a bed on a '50 Chevy truck.