How do you change the 6 spark plug on a 2002 Nissan Xterra?

Answer 1

Knowledge that it can be done is the best tool. The plug is hidden out of sight between the engine and firewall; you can see it with a mirror and flaslight and can barely touch it with your fingertips. Start by unclipping the metal brake lines along the firewall and removing the clips left, center, and right (I used a wide blade screwdriver to spread the fingers on the clips). This will allow you to CAREFULLY move the brake lines up enough to slip your hand between the engine and firewall. REmove the boot by leaning over from the front of the engine. It's hard to get off -- twist, pull, twist -- maybe use pliers if you have new wires standing by. Now shift to the driver's side and work by standing on a stool and leaning over the fender. Put a 6" extension on a swivel plug socket (with rubber gripping insert) and guide it with fingertips over the plug. When it's engaged, add a universal joint and another 6" extension so you can connect the ratchet. Then unscrew the plug. Put some anti-sieze compound on the new plug threads (imagine dealing with a stuck plug in this position next time!) Put the plug in the swivel socket (rubber grip) and guide it back down to the plug hole. When I did it, I had no problems engaging the threads -- but be careful to get it started straight by hand-threading until you're sure it's going in straight. Torque to 20 ft lbs. Replace boot (very hard to press down and click on the plug -- had to lean over from the the front and use fingers on both hands to push. Replace the brake line clips and secure the brake lines.