4.3 MPI Spark Plug Change

[SCJeep]

Has anyone changed the plugs in a SPX series boat with 4.3 MPI? It looks to be quite difficult to access the plugs behind the risers. The older style risers on a carb 4.3 didn't seem to impede upon this access as much. I haven't tried yet, but just been planning some PM work during the offseason. I have a 2016 21 SPX and access from the sides of the engine is not optimal, you have to reach down from above the sun pad access.

Any tips, tools or advice for this maintenance item?

 

[SCJeep]

I will write a review of my own post after I changed the plugs.
Tools Required : Spark Plug Socket, Ratchet & Extension
Tools Helpful : Spark Plug Boot removal tool
I did everything basically by feel underneath the risers. The most difficult problem I had was actually removing the spark plug wire boot. I was able to do it by hand for 5 plugs and needed the tool for the most difficult position. Once the boot is removed simply push on the socket and extension, remove and reinstall new plug. Threading the new plug in was no issue.
The most difficult position was the middle plug on the port side. It is really close to a cooling hose on the riser and I could not get my hands in there to remove the boot. This is where the tool came in helpful.
I bought the correct plugs on Amazon, ACDelco 41-101 Iridium and were like ~$4.66/ea. All of the autoparts houses wanted like $8-9/ea.

 

[scoflaw]

Those iridium plugs could easily last the length of time you own the boat. Forget about PM when it comes to spark plugs,

Wait until it skips a beat. That's the auto equivalent of their 100,000 mile plug.

 

[Little Ducky]

I would like to see the boot removal tool.

I had to look that one up and there are plenty to choose from..... which one do you recommend for our tight plug locations?

 

[SCJeep]

scoflaw - you are right, the plugs looked brand new. I kept them as spares. I'm just a bit old school, the plugs have been in for 3 seasons and it's cheap and easy to change them. My boat sits in my garage all winter....I walk by it everyday so in the winter I try to do maintenance and tinker on a few things here and there.

Little Ducky - Here is the tool that I bought.
https://www.amazon.com/Westward-2GK...al+tool&qid=1551908217&s=gateway&sr=8-2-fkmr0
It was super tight and difficult to use. After perusing Amazon I think I would try this one next, it would probably work better in the tight clearances.
https://www.amazon.com/Lisle-51250-...x=spark+plug+boot+removal+tool,aps,132&sr=8-7

 

[atrick]

I recommend the Lisle-51250 as having used it when I did the plugs on my 4.3. You can get it at your local auto parts dealer as they are pretty standard just made by different companies