[2.5x_sleeper]

The Subaru recommended maintenance schedule for the '09 says to replace every 30K miles, so you got your monies worth out of those spark plugs! :wink:

Bobby...

['07 FSXT MODding Journal] ['03 X MODding Journal]

 

[Syphers47]

.doot saving for later

 

[bufddymike]

Spark plug swap - '09-'13 Fozzie

Before you respond, yes I am aware there are numerous posts on spark plug swaps. I have viewed what I believe to be them all.

My question is, does one exist that makes sense to the average Joe like myself? I have scoured the web for two days looking for a decent how-to video or simple directions and it appears to be much more complicated than I imagined.

I just swapped both drive belts over the weekend with relative ease thanks to a DIY YouTube video. I never in a million years imagined a Spark plug swap would be more difficult.

Any help guys?

 

[Ozark08]

Theres a great writeup on nasioc with pictures. I'll try and find a link.

 

[Ozark08]

DW 850cc Injector step-by-step install w/ NKG Iridium plugs too! - NASIOC

I'm sure he covers it, but one of the drivers side coil packs comes out easiest if you rotate it and drop it out the bottom. Goes in best that way too.

I've said this several times recently, but for a first time performance this is a job made for a car club friend. Supply beer and pizza in exchange for help. I guarantee there's a Subaru enthusiast group in Buffalo.

 

[bufddymike]

Thanks Ozark. My problem is, the link you provided, does not provide an easy spark plug installation guide (IMO). I know I might be coming across as crass but I do not own a turbocharged Forester and I am not replacing injectors. I guess I can't believe it is so difficult to find a how-to video for just spark plug change on a non-turbocharged '09-'13 Forester. I do appreciate the advice on a local enthusiast group - something I will be looking into after I leave work today. Thanks again!

 

[bufddymike]

Did the job over the weekend. Took about 1.5 hours but I certainly wasn't rushing. I used the typed directions from the beginning of this thread. Not too bad, thank you for that! A couple differences however, for one, I cannot imagine doing driver side without removing battery - this was a requirement for me.

I am curious to hear what spark plugs others went with. Instead of going with OEM NGK, I went with Denso Platinum TT which really sold me on the engineering. Also - the plugs come with a special coating so I did NOT use the anti-seize that I picked up before starting the project.

I have not noticed an increase in MPGs yet, which I had hoped for, but that also may be due to winter gas.

 

[adc]

Did the job over the weekend. Took about 1.5 hours but I certainly wasn't rushing. , I cannot imagine doing driver side without removing battery - this was a requirement for me.

I am curious to hear what spark plugs others went with. Instead of going with OEM NGK, I went with Denso Platinum TT which really sold me on the engineering. Also - the plugs come with a special coating so I did NOT use the anti-seize that I picked up before starting the project. .

Honestly with the right combination of extensions it really was not a problem. I can't torque that one though. Mostly I go between 1/3 and 1/2 turn after hand tight. I do use anti-sieze..but thats a preference. On 2 subarus I have done about 6 changes.

I generally use the Autolite double plats which can be had for less than 10 bucks total.

 

[bufddymike]

Have you ever noticed any MPG gains?

 

[bufddymike]

Have you noticed any MPG gains?

 

[Swisscheese]

I'm going with iridium plugs. More expensive but last 4x longer. Too much of a PITA to change every 30k. 4 from Rock Auto $29 shipped. Not having to change plugs for 80k mi.,PRICELESS

 

[Bassmaker]

Just looking at the post title. Where are you putting the plugs? they aren't meant to go there :laugh:.

 

[rustfarmer]

One thought--In your writeup you first say correct torque is 1/2 turn after plug touches seat, then later say 3/4 turn is about right.

 

[GuusV]

Just looking at the post title. Where are you putting the plugs? they aren't meant to go there :laugh:.

I was thinking the same thing.

I don't think you'll improve how it runs if you put them there. Don't think the ride would be more enjoyable either...

Your mileage may vary... LOL

 

[adc]

One thought--In your writeup you first say correct torque is 1/2 turn after plug touches seat, then later say 3/4 turn is about right.

Sorry..3/8 turn is good really 1/2 turn is max..I will change.

 

[adc]

I'm going with iridium plugs. More expensive but last 4x longer. Too much of a PITA to change every 30k. 4 from Rock Auto $29 shipped. Not having to change plugs for 80k mi.,PRICELESS

The plats will last 100K believe me. Iridiums not really nessary..but whatever.

 

[ottawa_boy]

Thank you all for discussions and input. This knowledge was put to good use this past weekend by me.
Just a couple of mine lesson learnt.
1. I used a "3/8in Drive Universal Joint Socket". It made my life so much easier.
This was my setup:
5/8 Spark Plug Socket-3" Extension-Universal Joint Socket-6" Extension-Drive Ratchet (See Image Below)

2. At least, for 2006 Forester X, On Passenger side- You have to remove Air box and Air Box holder. (See Image Below). The tool gets stuck by Air Box holder.