Quick question ... how often do you recommend changing your spark plugs? The manual states every 30k, but I've never changed them that soon. In the past I've gone as long as 90k, but I am getting a P0301 code and have 67k on the plugs in there now. Just wondering what everyone else does.

I have a 2004 Ram 1500 with a 4.7 engine.

Thanks in advance ...

 

Every 30 k for copper core plugs, which IIRC are copper core from the factory. It's cheap insurance. The electrodes wear quicker on copper core plugs, so you should be changing them at the recommended intervals and don't bother switching to platinum, titanium, etc plugs, these engines run best with plain ol OEM copper core plugs.

 

I've always tuned my own vehicles, except for this one, which I have the mechanic tuneup for me. I tell him I only want OEM and not to substitute with different plugs, so I can assume that is what he has been doing. So I guess at 67k, I can bring it in. If I had a better location to do the tuneup myself, I would attempt it. If the plugs don't iron out the P code problem, then I will replace the coils. That should be fairly easy to do myself.

 

P0301 is misfire cylinder 1. Take a look at the plug in cylinder 1 and you'll probably see the issue. Worn electrode or ground strap is usual culprit.
If plug looks good, swap the coil with another cylinder and see if problem moves with the coil.