Spark Plugs on 99 3.8L Caravan

After looking at this I am thinking

Either remove the windshield wiper cowl or the manifold to get the rear plugs.
Is there a preference? Why?
Any better way?

 

You have to remove the cowl. It's not hard. If you have rear a/c you have to
remove or at least move the alternator out of the way also. You can get to
the other 2 from underside but if you r&r the plenum it's easier. Also not a
bad time to put in a belt and at least a rear valve cover gasket.
Larry

 

I have the same van and engine ('99 3.8L). I've managed to get them all,
including the two difficult ones in the back without removing either. YMMV
depending on the length of your arm and the size of your hands. It was a
PITA though. I know others have also managed so that is why I persisted
despite the obstacles...

Bob

 

I too changed the plugs without removing the intake manifold or the wiper
cowl. It is a long reach and a tight squeeze, but not too bad. I did
remove the altenator and bracket to get to the #1 plug.

 

"jdoe"
"Bob Shuman"
"David J. Allen" dallen03NO_SPAM@sanNO_SPAM.rr.com


Much thanks to all.
Pretty much confirms what I thought.
Will probably end up trying the cowl approach.
I think the AWD I forgot to mention plugs up the bottom pretty well and
flexibility has gotten a bit to the chancy side.
That is one tight looking squeeze and by braille task otherwise.
I am impressed that it can be done.

 

I have access to a hoist and easy to do from up under. Yes, EVEN the
AWD. I have done MANY of them.

 

(Richard Benner Jr) wrote

No hoist. Could ramps work?
I suppose I could run it up and take a looksee easy enough.
Thanks for the additional option.

 

Ramps will work.

All three sparkplugs are reachable with your left hand as
long as your arm/hand is skinny enough to fit up there.

There is usually some nasty casting flash on the top of the
rear exhaust manifold, so you'll want to protect your left
forearm as best you can, (I use my Nomex heat sleeve)
otherwise you'll be tearing some meat off your arm...

 

Neil Nelson

Thanks.

With all the grunting, dexterity and associated flesh loss issues on
either the bottom or top braille methods.

Would it be easier on the body (and quicker overall) just to pull the wiper
cowl.
That looks like a 10 min job to pull, 2 bolts, 1 plug, 1 hose and lift.
Then you get a fairly straight shot at the works, from what I can see.

Am I missing something here?

Successful accomplishment by these methods seems quite impressive to me,
but I'm out of training and not up for the X-games.

 

Ya do what works best for you...

My MO is; the less I take apart, the less that can go wrong.