Plug Replacement

Ferrara_racing · 01-26-2006, 05:58 AM

Hey guys looking for some advise. I recently purchased a tune up kit and intend on changing the spark plugs in my Boxster this spring. I am also considering changing all the O rings , inner and outer on the plug tubes, is this a good idea? Also, I'm a bit confused, why would oil circulate around the plugs? Either I've read the internet posts wrong or it sounds like these O rings are on the ends of the Beru tube which the plug fits in. any advise or thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks...

AFJuvat · 01-26-2006, 09:11 AM

There is an inner and outer o-ring on the tubes. The tubes themselves isolate the plugs from the rest of the valve drive, otherwise, the plugs would be bathed in oil.

The tubes can be a bit of a challenge to get out. It is easier with the engine a bit warm. I use a small dipstick with the tip bent into a hook. As you slide the tool in, you can feel the ridge at the bottom where you can hook the tube to pull it.

You do have to use a bit of care, The tubes can become brittle with age. If you are going to order the o-rings, I would also get one or two replacement tubes as well. They only cost around $4.00 each.

AFJ

Tool Pants · 01-26-2006, 09:35 AM

Due to the design of the engine there is a space between the cam cover and where the spark plug screws into the head. The black plastic spark plug tube bridges this gap. Due to the oil under the cam cover the tube needs to be sealed, so O-rings are used on each end of the tube.

If they are not leaking leave them alone. You will not disturbe them when you change the plugs.

Ferrara_racing · 01-26-2006, 11:21 AM

Thank You Toolpants,

An education in every post you make. My tubes are not leaking so I think I will just change the plugs. when I bought the vehicle the dealer told me about these tubes and said to watch for them as they leak over the years of ownership.

Tool Pants · 01-26-2006, 02:14 PM

It is easy to tell if a spark plug tube is leaking. The tube on the right in this picture from Pelican is leaking. They are known to leak on some but not all cars, but if they are not leaking now I would leave them alone. My Jan. 1997 has the original tube and O-rings and they do not leak.