How to Take the Spark Plugs Out on a 1997 Ranger

Iskandar Blogger 5:18 PM
How to Take the Spark Plugs Out on a 1997 Ranger

The Ford Ranger name was originally a trim package name for the F-series trucks in the 1960s and 1970s. The Ford Ranger nameplate was first placed on a small Ford pickup in 1983. The 1997 Ford Ranger was available in both two- and four-wheel drive applications. The 1997 Ranger had a choice of three engines: a 2.3-liter in-line four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter V-6 and a 4.0-liter V-6. Replacing the spark plugs is essentially the same process for all three engines. Access to the spark plugs can be somewhat more difficult on the two V-6 engines.

Instructions

    1

    Open the hood of the Ranger. Set the hood prop. Remove the negative battery cable from the top of the battery, using a ratchet and socket.

    2

    Twist one spark plug wire and pull it off of the spark plug, grabbing it by the boot. Do not pull the wires themselves. Remove the spark plug with a 3/8-inch-drive ratchet and socket, along with a 6-inch extension. Turn the spark plug counterclockwise to remove it from the engine. Inspect the spark plug wire. If the wire is torn, cracked or dry rotted, replace the wires.

    3

    Set the spark plug gap on the new plug, by inserting a spark plug gap gauge between the metal L-shaped arc and the needle point of the electrode. The gap on the 2.3-liter engine spark plugs should be 0.044 on the 2.3-liter engine and the 3.0-liter V-6. The 4.0-liter V-6 spark plug gap should be set to 0.054 with the gap gauge.

    4

    Disconnect the extension from the ratchet. Insert the spark plug into the spark plug socket, and use the extension and socket to properly place the new plug. Turn the spark plug into the engine by hand to ensure proper threading, until the plug is snug. Attach a torque wrench to the extension and socket and tighten the spark plug to the specifications set by the spark plug manufacturer, located on the box.

    5

    Repeat steps 2 through 5 to complete the spark plug removal and installation on the rest of the engine. On the 3.0- and 4.0-liter V-6 engines, install a swivel attachment between the extension and socket. This will allow you to maneuver around the engine compartment and reach the rearmost spark plugs.