So, as a new Fiero owner as of about three months ago, I am going through my procedure to change out all fluids and do a tune up on my new car. This weekend, then next thin in line to change is the spark plugs. I go to pull the boot off of my first plug and the boot comes off, but the wire breaks and the clamp is still on the plug. Okay, no big deal. I wanted to upgrade away from the 7mm wires that came with it, and I guess now is the right time, lol. Got a new set of wires, and continue on.
As I get to the plugs at the front of the motor, they literally twisted off by hand. I didn't need a ratchet or anything! The car was running fine, and the plugs I pulled out while old did have any-seize on them, but dang! I am used to turning plugs in an iron block motor until it crushes the crush washer and locks it in place. Hand tight doesn't seem safe! Was I lucky to find this now, or is that normal for these cars, and I am just a noob and shouldn't worry about it?
I am sure you meant anti-seize, welcome to the Fiero addiction! Whoever installed the plugs before you did not tighten them down enough. Make sure you use anti-seize on the new plugs. Another must on your check list is to remove the HAVC blower motor and the resistor and clean the leaves and debris out of the blower housing, it will prevent a fire!
Do not get anything fancy for when you do the plugs and wires. You'll find many threads here on PFF of individuals who have issues because they purchased various ignition components meant to improve performance. Pick up simple AC Delco R42TS plugs and a good plug wire set (The Fiero Store has a near OEM replacement made by STI that is in the correct red color and size, or similar), and a good OEM style replacement cap and rotor.
You will also want to purchase a spare ICM and coil, even if they're junk yard used from a salvaged L44 V6 Fiero, some dielectric grease, and keep it all with you in the car with the proper tools to change them both out (I carry a small box) for when one goes out and strands you on the side of the road. Won't be if it's going to happen but "when" it will happen.
True story. I was doing some fiberglass work at an RV dealership after hours. One of the employees was working on his own car as they were allowed. He said it had a bunch of bad lifters because it ran rough and was making a lot of loud ticking. He took off the valve covers, pulled the rocker arms and pushrods out to find the bad lifters. For whatever reason, another guy helping was pulling out the spark plugs. They were all just hand tight. The ticking was from the air leaking past them on and off, along with the rough running. They put everything all back together, tightened the plugs and it ran fine. Great way to kill 4-5 hours I guess.
Count yourself as LUCKY! Most of us find the plugs, especially the ones against the firewall rusted in so tight it takes a minor miracle to get them out. Anti-seize is your friend.
[This message has been edited by steve308 (edited 02-18-2014).]
Just to point out the obvious......it only takes a little bit of anti-sieze on the seat area and the top of the threads. Don't go crazy with the stuff!
LOL, Thanks for the "any-seize" observation. My typing doesn't always keep up with my thoughts. I appreciate the insight. Put in Copper AC Delco plugs. Keeping those spare parts available is sound advice. It's been along time since I have had a treasure hunt at a stripping yard, so that gives me some stuff to hunt down.
