How to Change the Plugs on a Ford E350
by Gregory Crews
Replacing the spark plugs on your Ford E-350 is an important task to ensure your vehicle runs smooth and at optimum fuel efficiency. The spark plug is the working end of the ignition system. The distributor sends high voltage to the spark plug, which in turns makes a spark. The spark mixes with the fuel and the oxygen is what makes the pistons move. They are done in a specific order to ensure the motor runs smoothly and without hesitation. When the van starts running rough, it will be time to investigate your spark plugs for corrosion.
Step 1
Open the hood to access the engine compartment. The spark plugs are located along the sides of the motor. They will have a wire running to each of them.
Step 2
Pull the wire off the plug. Grasp the wire by the bottom of it and pull toward you.
Step 3
Loosen the spark plug with the socket wrench. Ensure you have a 5/8th size spark plug socket with which to remove the plugs.
Step 4
Place the new spark plug in the socket with the threaded end pointing out. Start the spark plug to the empty cylinder. Tighten the spark plug till it is snug.
Step 5
Push the spark plug wire back on to the plug. Push till it makes a clicking sound.
Step 6
Repeat this step on the remaining cylinders. Depending on the motor you will have to replace 8 to 12 spark plugs.
References
Tips
- The spark plug is gapped from the manufacturer for maximum efficiency.
- You can remove the doghouse in the van for extra room. The doghouse unsnaps at the base and you can pull it out and to the side to access the motor from inside the vehicle. The doghouse is the midsection between the driver and passenger side.
Things You'll Need
- Socket wrench
- 5/8th deep-well spark plug wrench
- New spark plugs
Warnings
- Performing maintenance on a hot motor can lead to burns. Ensure the Ford van has had time to cool off.
Writer Bio
Gregory Crews has been in the film industry for three years and has appeared in more than 38 major motion pictures and 16 television shows. He also writes detailed automotive tutorials. His expertise in the automotive industry has given him the skills to write detailed technical instructional articles.
