- Spark plug socket wrench
- Spark plug gap gauge
- New spark plugs (NGK Iridium IX spark plugs are recommended)
- Dielectric grease
- Torque wrench
- Wire brush
Instructions:
1. Preparations
- Disconnect the battery: Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to ensure that there's no power to the engine while you work on the spark plugs. Locate the negative terminal, usually marked with a "NEG," "-" or "BATT." Use a 10mm wrench to loosen the nut holding the terminal cable, and remove the cable.
2. Remove the Ignition Coils
- Locate the ignition coils on top of the engine. There will be three of them, each with a wire connector and two 10mm bolts holding them in place. Start with one coil and remove the bolts.
- Disconnect the wire connector by pressing the small, plastic tab on its side and pulling straight up.
- Once the wire connector is detached, gently lift the ignition coil straight up and out of the spark plug hole. Repeat this process for the remaining two ignition coils.
3. Clean Around Spark Plug Holes
- There may be some debris around the spark plug hole. Use the wire brush to clean the area and remove any loose dirt. This helps reduce the risk of debris falling into the spark plug tube when you remove the old plugs.
4. Remove the Old Spark Plugs
- Use the spark plug socket wrench and extension to loosen and remove the old spark plugs. Be careful not to drop the old plugs into the spark plug tube. If they fall in, you'll need to retrieve them with a strong magnet.
5. Check Spark Plug Gap
- While one of the old plugs is out, check its spark plug gap to make sure it's within the manufacturer's specified range (usually around 0.044 inches). If the gap is too small or too large, use the spark plug gap gauge to adjust it to the recommended value.
- This step might not be necessary for the new Iridium spark plugs as some types come pre-gapped.
6. Install New Spark Plugs
- Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the threads of the new spark plugs. This helps prevent the threads from seizing and makes it easier to remove them later.
- Screw in the new spark plugs by hand until they are finger-tight. Then use the spark plug socket wrench to tighten them. Tighten the spark plugs snugly, but do not overtighten as it could damage the threads. Follow the manufacturer's torque specifications if available.
7. Reinstall Ignition Coils
- Reinsert the ignition coils into their respective holes and press down until they snap into place.
- Reconnect the wire connectors to the ignition coils and ensure they're securely attached.
- Replace the 10mm bolts that held the ignition coils in place. Tighten them snugly.
8. Reconnect Battery and Test
- Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery to restore power to the vehicle.
- Start your car and let it run for a few minutes. Listen for any unusual noises or check if there are any error lights on the dashboard.
By following these instructions you should be able to successfully change the spark plugs of your 2003 Mitsubishi Montero Sport 3.0. Always refer to your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions and any torque specifications.
