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97 Passat spark plug change-out

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drive_blind

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Discussion starter · #1 ·
Would anyone be able to provide advice/assistance in replacing sparkplugs in a '97 Passat GLX? I openned the hood today and noticed that I probably have to take apart half the engine to get into the plug boots, but that's to be expected. My real concerns are the type of plugs, correct gapping, or anything else you can think of since the owner's manual tells you to go to the dealer for this...right. (Here, take my wallet.)
Any help is greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Pete
 
#2 ·
Re: 97 Passat spark plug change-out (drive_blind)

it's a few minutes job....
the only thing u might have to take off
is the plastic covers on top of the engine..nuttin else...
do u have the wire boot removal tool?
that will simplify ur life....
they sell sealing grease in autozone/advance - like 9 cents,
so ur spark plugs won't e a hell of a job to remove next time
and also prevents dust getting into the boots...
for plug types - people recommend bosch [as oem]
or ngk, platinums, dunno the cost, search the forum...
and honestly i don't know bout the gap...
would be interesting 2 find out how much it is
and how 2 adjust that!
 
#3 ·
Re: 97 Passat spark plug change-out (drive_blind)

To take out the plugs, look at your hood prop rod. There is likely a black plastic piece that looks like it belongs there but actually pops off. This is your plug removal tool. You put the wide flared end down the hole, twist a little clockwise to lock the tool onto the tabs on the boots, then pull out. Once you get one out you'll see how it's really working. Same procedure only reversed to put the boots back in.
I didn't know this piece was for the plugs and ordered a very expensive metal one online to do it rather than paying a mechanic for such a simple job. It's made by Hazet, bought it from some company in Georgia. If you don't have one, it's great, and I still use it instead of the plastic one, but a useless purchase.
As for the plugs, I have NGK iridiums in, and they made a huge improvement in response and most importantly mileage once I put them in. I think they were about 7-8 each at Autozone. Pre-gapped, don't touch them or else!
 
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