[Crusader556]

I will be changing the spark plugs, spark plug wires and distributor cap on a 2000 Astro AWD.

I've heard that the easiest way to get to the the spark plugs is to pull the front tires off and remove the wheel well covers. Is this true or are there other easier ways to change the spark plugs?

If I go that route and remove the wheel well covers where can I get replacement press studs/buttons for putting the wheel well covers back on? BTW, what exactly are thes press studs/buttons called? Also is there a tool I can get to remove these press studs/buttons without breaking them?

I would also like to know what spark plugs, spark plug wire and distributor cap do you guys recommend buying?

Lastly, if anyone has any tips to make this job go more smoothly I would appreciate it! :banana:

Thanks!

 

[Crusader556]

Oh yeah, I didn't notice it on the other thread but I would also like to know what spark plugs, spark plug wire, rotor and distributor cap you guys recommend buying?

Thanks again!

 

[mystrovan]

Hi Crusader.
I just did my plugs and wires yesterday on my '98 Astro AWD. I recommend OEM stuff, AC Delco. I read here over the years that AC Delco is recommended. I also did my rotor and cap last year, also AC Delco. Check out autoparts stores for cheaper AC Delco. I got my wires for CAN$71 at Lordco locally, where as the Chev dealer wanted $209. I'm not sure if your in Canada or US.

I noticed in your earlier question that you were asking about those clips that hold the plastic splash shielding in place, I couldn't reuse any of them, they break off easy if you yank one at a time, the best bet is snip the heads off with side cutters, then push the rest out of the hole, so you don't accidently tear your plastic splash shield. I call them christmas tree clips. Take pieces of one to the autopart store, they have them, they are a common type, usually hanging on racks at any autoparts dept/store..

I did mine through the wheel wells, had to take the dog house engine cover off to do the wires. I have done many plugs and wires on conventional cars, so even though it seems like its going to be a nightmare to do the van, it only took me just less than 2 hours start to finish. I found all the wires could be shoved on and off the spark plugs from the wheel wells, except the back two on the drivers side had to do some fiddling with long screw driver from above through the engine compartment to pop the boots off and new ones on.

I even came out without gashed knuckles!
Have fun.