I am new here found out very quickly that this site is huge! I was just wondering if you use the metal sleeve that the spark plug boot goes into or do you leavethem off? Those things are a pain.

I have a 1995 Extended Cab with a 360.I bought it new and ithas 190,880 miles and has never been rebuilt, or had any major problems. My evaporator core is going out.

 

It's pretty mixed, some say leave 'em, others say toss 'em. Personally, I just left mine on, they don't really seem to be that big of a pain...

 

It's like using a condom, not neccessary but advised. Besides, how often do you really mess with plugs anyway, and any amount of extra protection is a good thing imo.

 

Mine are off only because my new Taylor 8.5 mm spark plug boots don't fit inside them. When I used other wires I left them on. When I had them onat least twice per year I pulled them off, used my air copressor to blow the crap out of the spark plug well (I left the plugs in), and used sandpaper and/or steel wool to clean the sleeves. It made getting them in and out much easier. The first time I pulled them it took 3 men, a jackhammer, 2 cans of PBBlaster, several different types of pliers, and a whole lot of words not used in public to get them out. If you do leave them installed, always pint the opening down, so any water that gets into the sleeve will drain out.

 

Well, the first time I changed the plugs was at 123k. It now has 190k and runs like a kitten. I almost hate to do it. I put in Bosch Platinum plugs. When I owned an 89 Dakota, I had to change the plugs and oilto pass inspection.Those I could do in15-20 minutes.

Also, I have forgotten what I should torque the plugs to. Is it 18-25ftlbs?