spark plugs, rotor, and cap

[avsarinana]

I'm a new owner of a 82 911 sc... Is it really necessary to replace spark plugs, rotor and cap. every 15,000 miles.

I fully understand adjusting and checking the valves and oil changes (that's necessary)... I once owned a 912, I remember I once didn't change the spark plugs till 40,000 miles.. The car ran great.

Thanks

[Nick Triesch]

Hi. Our cars are different from modern cars that can go 100,000 miles on spark plugs. The computers in newer cars keep everything near perfect. Our cars are 35+ years old and the parts like cap, rotor and plugs wear out much faster and also get carbon buildup. Just like an old VW. So, it is important that you do the 15,000 mile maintenance. Easy to change out and your car will run like a top!!! Shame on the 912 plugs!!! And those are really easy to change!!! I came from the Bug world and you did maintenance every 3000 miles!!!!

[vascott01]

For the cheap price and enjoyment of the car.. It is simple and your engine will love you. Spark plugs I would do every other, just be sure to check them at the 15K mark (Bentley's manual says every 2 years or 30K). The plugs will tell you how your car is running.

Wayne Dempsey's book says to do it every 15K for rotors and cap. I will do it

I just did an engine rebuild and I think if I had paid closer attention to the little things. I would not have had to do it...Lesson learned on my part.

[stevedollar]

I replaced my plugs, rotor and cap after 24k miles and for the plugs at least, that was waiting too long. After seeing the heavy carbon deposits on the plugs, I replaced the O2 sensor (88k and never replaced) and it was easier than the plugs. It seems to run a little smoother and no more ping going up hills.

[afterburn 549]

Use iridium plugs, a dab of antisize .they will last a long time.

[T77911S]

not iridium. not platinum

use the copper supers.

[Jdub]

If you do not have paper showing plug wires less than 12 years old you must include that as well (imho). Be SURE to use the approved 911 toolkit plug wrench - will save you a world of grief.

If you are feeling adventurous, remove and clean the distributor. They get filthy in side and freeing them up of old grease, dirt, and whatnot lets the car idle better, respond to advance better, and overall give you a better 911 experience.

[Pstallo]

I just replaced my rotor and cap for the first time (I can't believe it actually started and ran after I had my hands in the engine bay).

How difficult is it to get to the spark plugs to change them?

[T77911S]

you either need the plug tool from the tool kit or i use a 13/16 sparkplug socket with a swivel and a 3in extension. i ended up welding it all together because if the socket comes off it can be a pain to get it out.
if you barely put the plug in the socket it wont come apart.

[tirwin]

Originally Posted by Pstallo

How difficult is it to get to the spark plugs to change them?

Not too bad but depends on how cluttered your engine bay is. A/C brackets can get in the way on the right side.

I find that a stubby socket wrench and the right combination of swivel joints and extensions makes it easier. It's like most things... just find what works best for you. Some people think the factory tool is perfect.