plug carbon build up

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Ryan Timm

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My truck has 70k and I want to get the plugs done soon. Is there any product out there I can run through the tank for a while that will help clean the carbon build up off the plugs? Would regular sea foam work? Anything else you guys recommend?
 
I've been debating this one, since I have an extended warranty to 75,000 miles. I'm not sure what to do. I have a tad over 30,000 miles on my ST. I'd really like the crap plugs out and a new set of Champions in my ST. Not sure whether to buy the special tool and do them myself or have the dealer to do it. I really dont want to break one off and have issues. If you have the special tool, will that eliminate any possibility of getting crap(insulator) in the motor? Heck, I've seen dealers do stupid crap when working on new vehicles before. I have done "normal" plugs before with no issues but.......





'07 ST
 
I changed mine out at 20,000 no problem at all not special tool needed. But, you need to follow the TSB to the letter. When you soak them let them sit at least over night and do what it says 1/4 turn loosen then turn back before loosening more. Work them back and forth and they should come out alright.

 
I've probably done well over 100 complete spark plug changes on the 3 valve motors with the redesigned plugs and have not had one single issue by just normally pulling the plugs out, some of the engines had 50k and some had 120k. After you break the plug loose you will be able to tell fairly quick if it is gonna come out or not, if it gives you a hard time then use the penetrating oil...I like PB Blaster, while it is soaking move on to the next plug. When you put the new plugs in use the anti seize on the part that protrudes down into the cylinder but do not get it on the area directly around the electrode and do not goop it on, a slight film is all that is required, also make sure that you have the special plug socket for these.
 
I talked to a friend that works at a dealership and is very familiar with this issue. He mentioned that It doesn't matter at this point if I wait until 100k or not, the damage is done. He has some fluids he will run through it to help them loosen the carbon but was wondering if there is anything I can do on my end. He has a tool to get them out if they break off. He hasn't had it happen much.
 
Also, Thanks for the threads but I read all of these already. They make no mention of any way to loosen the carbon with a additive. Any ideas??
 
Is no way for an additive to get to and soften the carbon deposits.

Just follow the TSB to the letter and all should be fine.

Did the stang plugs last yr @12K miles, with an A/F of 10.5 they were really ugly and a bitch to remove, but none broke.
 
'bought the ST at 107K miles. Had the plugs changes right away by a local shop. They looked good to me and he didn't say anything about difficulty's ! Maybe I have a guardian Angel.
 
It's not rumor...it does happen but just because Ford has a TSB on it does not mean that it is going to happen to every single 3 valve motor out there. Don't worry about it, change your plugs and if you happen to have one that doesn't come out screw it back in and take it to a shop if you don't feel like mesing with it. Like I said I have probably done 100+ plug changes on the 3 valve motors and have not had one single issue.
 
I talked to a shop who is quite familiar on this and they said if it breaks it would cost $30 for the extraction of the piece.
 

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