Hi There....Thinking of changing my spark plugs and wires (98 Blazer, 4.3 Vortec, 4WD, LS) Any tips to make this easy, have read where they can be a bear to get to. Thanks

 

I did this recently and didn't have any difficulty.

If I recall correctly, the No. 2 plug was easiest for me with a slim ratchet. If any of the spark plugs are not readily accessible from the engine compartment, remove the wheel and access the plug from the wheel well. You might want to disconnect the steering column at the rag joint to access plug No. 3. Sometimes, a piece of rubber tube attached the spark plug can help to reinsert it.

Some people like to clean the block near the plug with compressed air before removal. I like to apply a little oil to the threads of the new plugs before replacing them.

The clips for the spark plug wires can be a little tricky. The clips pop open with a small flat blade screw driver. Pay close attention to how the wires are routed, you don't want them touching each other or any metal. Use dielectric grease to seal the new boot to the distributor cap. Some people like like to put dielectric grease on the boot at the plug, but if you do be sure not to get any grease on the metal connection.

Small numbers on the distributor cap indicate to which cylinder the wires go. Cylinders on the drivers side are 1, 3, and 5 from front to rear, and on the passenger side it is 2, 4 and 6 from front to rear. Pay close attention to wires 1 and 3, the numbers on the cap are opposite of what you might think they should be.

If it were me, I would replace the rotor at the same time as wires and plugs. The above is from memory so I hope everything is helpful and correct. If not someone may correct me.

 

it can be done without disconnecting the steering shaft ,it can be a royal bitch to slide it back together. On mine there was a orange colored rubber like sleeve on the shaft,,.that i could slide down a little.for better access

 

also remove both wheels and work thru there,scrap the wheel well flaps(unless they are in good shape at 25 years old,,,lol) and buy the cheap aftermarket ones,they are garbage but better than nothing

 

The only spark plug that gave me trouble was the one behind the steering shaft.

If I remember correctly, I got it out using a regular spark plug socket with a combination wrench.

There are specialty sockets that incorporate a wobble joint people have used.

I bought a second type that has an offsat 3/8" drive for when/if I do it again. I have never used it though.

Snap On 3/8" Drive 12-Point SAE 5/8" Flank Drive® Offset Spark Plug Socket, S9723 https://share.google/oP6MWoKDOOCRyYzEZ

There is also this thread: Spark plug help!!!!! - Blazer Forum - Chevy Blazer Forums https://share.google/uVIVEF5H8pOf8uytn

 

Thanks for all the information guys, sounds like it isnt a big project

 

Yep, not a big project, but like many others on our Blazers where access is tight, it can be quite an annoying job. LOL

 

https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/c...rk+plug+socket

This specific socket is a must for #3 spark plug that is behind the steering column.