Are there any special precautions and or tools I will need to change out my spark plugs?

I have a 3/8" ratchet and metric sockets sizes 8" - 19".

I know I need a special socket in order to put the spark plugs in. Do I need to put the spark plugs in at an angle or something or else I'll damage them?

 

You'll need at least a standard 5/8ths socket, preferably the "spark-plug" 5/8ths. Also, plan on having about 10 inches worth of extensions as the spark plugs are down in there pretty far. Shouldn't take more than 5 minutes. Just take your time, don't cross thread the plugs and don't get frustrated if the sockets get stuck on the plugs. Take your time = paramount. Ask me about snapping spark plugs in half when building a race-prepped 454 in my corvette: Biggest pain in the *** evAr.

Good luck.

 

Get a spark plug socket, a cheap one will work fine. Like the dude says 5/8 . extension and some electrical tape.

 

What's the electrical tape for?

 

when i changed mine... i used a piece of silicon tubing to hold the plug then slowly turned it inside the chamber area to make sure it doesn't cross thread or anything...then i torqued it to specs..
also i used anti seize grease on the threads

 

Torque them to 13lbs...

 

All you need is a ratchet, extention, and spark plug socket. Take the old ones out. Than apply some "Anti sieze compound" on the threads of the new ones. This is a gray paste that prevents the spark plugs from getting "Stuck" in the holes. It will make them easier to take out next time. Them hand tighten them till snug. If the plug had a little washer, than give it a 1/4 turn more. If it didn't have a washer, but a taper, only give it a 1/16 turn more.

 

I stick a piece of silicon hose over the spark plug and lower it into position. Then turn it using the hose to start threading it. Once it is in snug, I pull the hose off and use the ratchet w/sparkplug extension. The hose will give you a better feel and keep you from crossthreading the plug.