Some random thoughts on changing plug wires and O2 sensors…

Plugs:
The only one that really, really stinks is #2. I can see where #8 can be a challenge but mine was simple as I had the starter out. There’s a write up on the Elite Spark Plugs site that is pretty helpful for the first timer (it was for me anyway). I was able to get them all with a standard plug socket, 3/8” drive, 3” extension and a U-joint. I did need a short cheater bar in a couple of cases (use caution). I can’t tell you how exactly how long it took because I worked on it off and on over a few days and did some other stuff too. I’d guess about four hours total for the plugs. I know it’s not record time, but it’s about what I expected. FWIW, I used NGK TR55s gapped at .050” (the ones I replaced were AC Delcos gapped at .055).

Plug Wires
These were not nearly as tough as I thought they would be. Driver’s side was a piece of cake. On the passenger side, #2 was a royal pain, but everything else was pretty easy. Keep in mind that the starter was out for replacement, and I did pull the alternator to make it easier to get at #2. I accidentally broke some of the stock wire looms while removing the old wires. I used a combination of cheapo generic looms and convoluted tubing to keep things looking nice when I installed the new wires. Be sure to use the stock wireways that are on the front of the block by the power steering pump – this will keep the wires from touching any of the pulleys (probably can’t do this with 8MM wires). I used AC Delco stock replacement wires. Estimated total time for wires: 2.5 hours.

O2 Sensors
Driver’s side is a walk in the park. Used an O2 sensor socket. Took about 10 minutes to remove and replace. The passenger side was more of a challenge. Since the starter was removed I could get to the sensor from the bottom, but the socket did not grip the sensor very well and it was really tough to break it loose – even with tons of WD-40. After cutting the wires on the old sensor and trying every imaginable combination of O2 socket, 3/8 ratchet, extensions, U-joints, box-end wrenches, Vise Grips (?!) and open end wrenches, I finally got it with simply a 3/8 drive ratchet and a 7/8” crow foot. BTW, if I knew then what I know now, I would have gone right to the crows foot instead of purchasing the sensor socket. I used AC Delco sensors. Estimated total time for the passenger side sensor: 3 hours.

If I had to do this all over again, I’m sure it could be done much faster. However, for a first timer, I’m quite pleased with the way things worked out. Fortunately this is not my daily driver and I had the luxury of taking my time and walking away for a while when I started to get aggravated.

For all newbies contemplating a tune up…

If I can do it, you can do it. Take your time and mentally prepare yourself for the worst nightmare project of your entire life. Then you’ll be pleasantly surprised as you realize that it’s not that bad (but it is close). Take your time and be patient.

Good luck.

Finn