Still have issues with the trans (goes to the dealership again tomorrow), but i decided to go ahead and change the spark plugs today.
I've had them in the tool box for about six months now, finally got the guts to tear into it.
Wasn't bad at all. Make sure you have plenty of extensions if you decide to do yours.
Surprised to see the plugs this nasty though. Wonder if they've ever been changed?
Anyway... MAJOR improvement. Trucks run a helluva lot better... I REALLY didn't even know it was running bad.
Thought i'd share.
2002 4.7 84,XXX miles.

[IMG]local://upfiles/18771/3FB9DCBEA9914C5897105B4874F647D1.jpg[/IMG]

 

You guys really need to get a swivel head plug socket. That and one short extension does'em all. I just did mine this afternoon.

They can be had from Craftsman, Part # 43322 in a 3/8" drive
One word of advice, spray the rubber retainer inside the socket with lithium grease (white) to help everything slide back off easy. Then you don't have to "GO FISHIN" for your socket.

 

I use CRC brand silicone spray. It works good and doesn't collect dirt or
cause a voltage breakdown.

 

good lord dood. .. the titanic could navigate that gap!!!

I would also say your fuel mileage has also increase.

 

i wonder why the old one is so rusted??

 

I wonder if Dielectric grease would be a better substitute, that way you woldn't have to worry about the contact between the plug and the wire boot. Just my $.02