1996 Ford Explorer Spark Plugs

Hi:
Is the engine missing? If so, most likely they are wrong. I need to know if this has a 4.0L V6

Joe

Rosey:
Here is the firing order and a picture of the engine cylender layout.

I hope this helps. Let me know if you have other questions.

Joe

Replacing plugs isn't hard, Rosey. I would think you would be able to do it. Before you do, make sure the plug wires that you installed are no against metal an arching. Also, be sure the wires are pushed into place tightly (you should hear a slight click)

As far as the plugs, you will either need a 5/8 deep socket or 13/16. Just unplug the wire, loosten and remove the old plug, gap the new plug (if you need help let me know), and replace it. Also, the your Explorer have a distributor cap or do the plug wires just attach directly to coil packs?

Joe

Hi:
the easyiest way to check is in the dark. Start the engine and if one of the wires is arching, you will see a spark.

If it is arching, the engine will miss.

JOe

Hi Rosey,

If the plug wire is arching and not the coil pack, it should be fine. Did you find a problem?

Joe

Hello,

Here is a guide and some diagrams to help you get the job done.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-change-spark-plugs

CAUTION: The Generator must be removed to allow for accessibility of the ignition wires that are routed below the generator.

CAUTION: Do not pull on the ignition wire directly as the wire may separate from the connector inside the boot.

Removing Ignition Wires At Coil Pack

REMOVAL
Disconnect ignition wire from spark plug by grasping the boot and twisting slightly in both directions to free it.
Disconnect the ignition wire from the ignition coil by squeezing the locking tabs and twisting while pulling upward.
Remove generator.
Open ignition wire separators and remove ignition wires.
CAUTION: Whenever an ignition wire is removed for any reason from a spark plug or ignition coil or a new ignition wire is installed, coat the entire interior surface of the boot with silicone dielectric compound with a "small clean tool" prior to installation.

CAUTION: Proper installation of ignition wires is critical to vehicle operation. If any ignition wire is improperly installed on spark plug or ignition coil, both spark plugs connected to that coil may not operate under load.

INSTALLATION
Install each ignition wire to the proper terminal on the ignition coils. The terminals on the ignition coils are numbered. Make sure the boots are fully seated and that both locking tabs are engaged.
Route ignition wire through ignition wire separators and close ignition wire separators.
Install generator.
NOTE: Ignition wire spark plug boot must be positioned 45 degrees from crankshaft centerline (outboard and forward) to make sure the boot seal is fully seated.

Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.

Cheers, Ken

Sometimes it makes it much easier if you go through the wheel well.
Jack up the explorer, remove the tire. Make sure the vehicle is supported very well so you will not get injured from the explorer falling.

There is a rubber splash guard that prevents water from entering the engine compartment. Remove the splash guard. You should have a much easier shot at the spark plugs. Do the same on the other side.

Don't forget to re-install the splash guard on each side before putting the tire back on.
Good Luck;
Rick

When you put the coil packs

back on, are you sure each ignition wire ( 1 3 7 2 6 5 4 8 ) is connected to the coil pack correctly?

The spark plugs need to be gapped!!
(0.052-0.056 inch)
** If a spark plug is removed for inspection, it must be reinstalled in the same cylinder.
Cylinders No. 1, 2, 3 and 4 have a "EG" suffix. Cylinders No. 5, 6, 7 and 8 have a "E" suffix.

Good Luck;
Rick