Getting the Ford Spark Plugs will help you improve acceleration, get a quick throttle response and increase engine life. The plug is designed to start the engine, and if the plug becomes damaged or broken, it can lead to total engine failure. If your plug is broken, it's good to have it replaced before you drive the vehicle out of town. Getting a replacement is not a cheap task, but it's an important one.
Ford recommends that you replace your spark plugs every 20,000 to 40,000 miles. However, it has been known that some Ford engines may need to be replaced sooner. If you are not sure whether you need a spark plug replacement or not, the Ford service manual can give you the right information. Depending on the type of vehicle you own, you may need to use special tools to remove the spark plug fragments from the head. If you are unsure of your model, Ford suggests that you consult a Ford technician at the nearest Ford service center. If you choose to have your plug replaced, you may also need to have the plugs gapped.
There are three main ways that spark plugs can break. A good way to get a spark plug out of your engine is to use a spark plug socket. You can also try using compressed air to remove plug fragments. If you are having trouble with this method, a Ford technician can help you get your plugs out.
Another way a spark plug can break is to get stuck in the engine cylinder head. The plug extension on V8 engines tends to get stuck in the head and can weld to the cylinder head. This can be a huge problem. It can lead to an expensive and messy spark plug replacement.
Having a broken spark plug may also be a sign that your engine is sluggish. This can be caused by deposits and particulates in the cylinder head that can cause decreased gas mileage. You may also see a rougher idle and decreased acceleration power. You can tell you need a spark plug replacement if the check engine light is on, or if the engine starts but does not run well.
Ford has known about this problem for years. They have even issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) on the subject. The TSB outlines the ways to get a spark plug out of your vehicle. The TSB is a bit on the long side at 11 pages, but it does offer a few suggestions that may help you avoid a costly and messy repair. The TSB also recommends treating the plug with a cleaner before you try to remove it. The TSB also says that the way to remove a spark plug is to soak it in penetrating oil for at least five minutes, but not more than ten.
The TSB also advises against using an air tool to spin out a plug. This method may be the way to get a spark plug out, but it can also lead to more damage.