How to Replace Spark Plugs in a 2001 Dodge Stratus DOHC
by Christian Killian
The 2001 Dodge Stratus' Dual Overhead Cam engine spark plugs are located in the top center of the cylinder head--right between the cams. The ignition system uses a coil pack located right beside the plugs. The system has very short spark plug wires from the coil to the spark plug so current drop is very low over the length of the wire. The spark plugs are mounted at the base of a tube in the valve cover so an extension on a ratchet is required to reach them.
Step 1
Disconnect the negative battery cable from the negative terminal of the battery before working on the ignition system. Loosen the retaining bolt on the cable end with a wrench and remove the cable from the battery.
Step 2
Pick a cylinder to start with and remove the spark plug wire from the coil pack. It will pull right off with a slight twisting motion. Pull the boot off the spark plug and out of the hole in the valve cover. Set the wire aside for now.
Step 3
Insert a spark plug socket with an extension attached into the hole in the valve cover and onto the spark plug. Connect a ratchet to it and turn the ratchet counterclockwise, loosening the plug, and then pull the socket and plug out of the hole. Discard the old plug.
Step 4
Connect a piece of 3/8-inch diameter hose onto the end of a new AP5263 spark plug and insert it into the valve cover. Turn the hose to thread the spark plug into the cylinder head and then pull the hose loose from the plug. Tighten the plug until tight with your spark plug socket, ratchet and extension.
Step 5
Push the spark plug wire back onto the spark plug and then plug the other end onto the coil pack. Move to the next plug and repeat the process.
Step 6
Install the negative battery cable on the negative battery terminal and tighten the retaining bolt with a wrench.
References
- "Haynes Repair Manual 1995 to 2001 Dodge Stratus, Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Cirrus;" Marc M. Scribner and John H. Haynes; 2001
Things You'll Need
- Wrench set
- Spark plug socket
- 3/8-inch rubber hose
- 4 AP5263 spark plugs
Writer Bio
Christian Killian has been a freelance journalist/photojournalist since 2006. After many years of working in auto parts and service positions, Killian decided to move into journalism full-time. He has been published in "1st Responder News" as well as in other trade magazines and newspapers in the last few years.
