How to Change the Spark Plugs in a Chevy Astro Van

The spark plugs in a Chevy Astro van should be changed every 60,000 miles. The plugs provide the spark necessary to ignite the compressed air and fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. Over time, however, the spark plugs will wear out. When this happens, you may notice that your Astro van is harder to start when the engine is cold. It will also generally run poorly and may begin to misfire. Replacement spark plugs can be purchased from most auto parts stores.

Pull the spark plug wire out of the top of the engine. When changing all the spark plugs, only work on one spark plug and wire at a time so that you don't end up mixing up the plug wires. This will mix up the firing order of the spark plugs.

Connect the socket extension to the plug socket. Then connect the extension to the socket wrench.

Lower the socket into the spark plug well. Grab onto the end of the spark plug with the spark plug socket. The interior of the spark plug socket is rubberized and the plug should slide into the end of the plug socket.

Turn the spark plug counterclockwise to loosen and remove it.

Pull the spark plug out of the plug well.

Remove the spark plug from the plug socket. Insert a new plug with the electrodes facing out of the socket.

Thread and tighten the spark plug into the spark plug well.

Slide the plug wire down into the plug well until it sits firmly over the end of the spark plug. You will be able to feel the end of the plug seal over the end of the spark plug.