To replace spark plugs on a 04 X-type manual transmission, I'd have to remove the intake manifold to access the three LH (firwall) plugs.

How hard is it to remove the intake manifold? I notice about six screws I need to take out but not sure what the next step would be.
Especially, there are two black pipes (metal/rubber) plugged into the right part (toward driver seat) of the manifold running from the top of the manifold to other components but how would I unplug the pipes?

Also, what type of spark plug do you recommend? Is Denso double platinum a good choice?

Look forward to your feedbacks.

 

Do a search, there is a write up on it. Some of the screws for the intake manifold are a little hard to find but it isn't hard. You don't need to remove it, you can just raise it up and support it to get at the back ones provided you remove some of the plumbing. I put NGK plats in mine when I did it the spark plugs in there at 100k were absolutely gone (although the car was running just fine). Everybody has their opinions on plugs, personally, I have never had an issue with NGKs so I stick with 'em. Cheap, readily available and they spark.

 

Like Bob says it's not that huge a deal, there are a efw performance mods you can do like port matching the intake runners while you have the intakes off as well. Plug choice is a personal thing, I'm sure one of the more performance oriented people will chime in, but I'd go with as good as you can afford for 2 reasons, they won't need to be changes for a while, and it's such a biotch to change them.

 

Look at my thread a page back called Intake removal tips .

 

I've got my plugs replaced to NGK Iridium. However, sometimes I'm experiencing hesitation during the car's on 3rd and 4th gear. I think this could be misfire proiblem?
If there is misfiring problem, would the engine warning light come on?