So I'm trying to replace spark plugs at 99.5K miles. I replaced the right bank with relative ease, but the left side presents some challenges for me. I've managed to replace #2 and #6 but #4 is a problem. Haven't tried for #8 yet.

the problem with #4 is the hoses and stuff are directly in the way of removing the coil. I've attached a pic. Would someone tell me how you've managed this mess? And further, what are these hoses for? the one connects to the fuel rail and the other to the air intake.

As a give back to the forum, I've attached a pic of the special tool I use to retrieve the plug from within the deep hole wherein it resides. I also use the special tool to replace the plug and get it started in the hole.



Special tool

 

I have a 04 XRR and had to remove a plastic panel from the master cylinder compartment. The panel holds the fuel line in place. Once it's removed, I was able to move the fuel line and was able to remove the COP.

 

thank you for the suggestion... i'll give it another look as soon as I can

 

Yup, this is what I did too. A couple of ratchet swivels, bloody knuckles and you'll get it!

 

Finally finished. I removed the bolt shown below which allowed the bracket holding the lines to move giving me enough play in the lines to get the #4 COP out.

#8 plug wasn't very difficult other than i tore the insulation a little bit, which bums me a little. Wonder what I could use to repair the tear? Any ideas?

the best part of this job is knowing it's done for the rest of the life of the car, given the 100K mile service interval.

 

Let me know if you would like some photos and a brief explanation of the steps.