3.6 compression test

[blkmkiii]

Which spark plugs are easier to remove? I've been reading something top and bottom plugs. Looking to get an idea as to the health of this engine before I dive in.

[crg53]

I would do a "leak down" test, as it will give you a way better idea of your engines internal health. It's pretty much the same amount of labour, but will tell you where your problems are if any, I.e. Intake valves, exhaust valves or rings.

[RedCoupe]

Originally Posted by blkmkiii

Which spark plugs are easier to remove? I've been reading something top and bottom plugs. Looking to get an idea as to the health of this engine before I dive in.

IIRC you can't access the bottom plugs without pulling the cat, muffler and the side sound/heat shields off, so the top plugs would be the "easier" ones. However, once you've pulled all that stuff off, along with a couple more pieces of engine tin, you can access both bottom and top plugs from underneath pretty easily. The access to the top plugs from the engine compartment is pretty miserable.

[nickd]

I find the top plugs pretty easy. You'll have plenty of access just by taking off the electric fan blower assembly on the left, and remove the airbox cover and filter on the right. I use a 3/8" ratchet, wobble/u-joint, and a ~4" extension, then the spark plug socket.

Still, if you don't know the history, then it's time to check the valve lash anyway. Which means you'll need to remove all of the bits to get to the bottom set of plugs too.

Enjoy!