ch45x7

So I now know what it sounds like to blow a spark plug out of the engine.

I replaced the plugs and wires last week. Must have either not tightened #4 down tight enough, or put too much never seize on it because it blew out while I was driving down the highway.

Helpful tip: if after changing plugs you hear a faint fluttering noise coming from the passenger side of the engine bay, check your plugs.
The noise was a fluttering noise during acceleration. It wasn't noticeable during idle, or even when driving, just when accelerating.

On a side note, always check out strange noises. They are not normal and could cause you big problems.

Finally, does anyone know if running one platinum plug with the rest being copper affect anything? It was all they had at the store I went to. I think I will go get another copper one, they are only $2 after all.

Turbo X_J

Threads are stripped out of the cylinder head. I have never installed a spark plug past "snug" and never had one "blow out".

Jeepzjlover

Fords are bad about doing this lol

EvstaG

So, you were only running on 5 cylinders and the only thing you noticed was a "slight fluttering upon deceleration" Lol. As well, why were you using anti-seize on spark plugs? As long as it is used in moderation, I suppose it can't hurt, but I personally don't see the need. Finally, how are you planning on repairing the plug hole? Heli-coil?

Radi

QFT. Either they blow out or they seize in the head and won't come out at all. Change 'em every time you change the cracked exhaust manifolds and you're good.


OP- running a single platinum with 5 coppers is harmless.

fatbill

that's why my kid thinks his mom's car is a "grand f^%^%n' marquis".

op, if yer head is stripped, check out dorman. they make the repair kit for the ford, idk if they make one for a 4.0......and im gonna go find out right now.

ch45x7

I was running on 6 cylinders until the plug blew out. My theory is that the fluttering was gases sneaking past the plug. The pressure of the cylinder was slowly working the plug back out until it finally gave way on the last thread, or I just didn't get it properly threaded the first time and it finally gave way.
I've always been taught to put anti-seize on spark plugs so they are easier to get out when you change them.
I'm going to find out Friday if I need to have the threads re-tapped or if I need to have a heli-coil put in.

skife

i always put anti-seize on my plugs, makes it alot easier to change next time.

ch45x7

Lucked out. No threads stripped, no damage done.
Looks like I just didn't tighten them down enough, others were a little loose. Whoops :/

EdZ

Need to know brand, and more importantly, quantity of beer consumed during the last tune-up...