GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Pontiac 🢒 2001 🢒 Grand Prix 🢒 General Information 🢒 Maintenance and Lubrication 🢒 Spark Plug Replacement

Removal Procedure

Notice: Observe the following service precautions:

   • Allow the engine to cool before removing the spark plugs. Attempting to remove spark plugs from a hot engine can cause the spark plugs to seize. This can damage the cylinder head threads.
   • Clean the spark plug recess area before removing the spark plug. Failure to do so can result in engine damage due to dirt or foreign material entering the cylinder head, or in contamination of the cylinder head threads. Contaminated threads may prevent proper seating of the new spark plug.
   • Use only the spark plugs specified for use in the vehicle. Do not install spark plugs that are either hotter or colder than those specified for the vehicle. Installing spark plugs of another type can severely damage the engine.

  1. Turn OFF the ignition.
  2. If you are replacing the engine right bank (rear) spark plugs, perform the following steps:
    3. 2.1. Remove the windshield wiper module cover. Refer to Wiper Motor Cover Replacement in Wipers Washer System.
    2.2. Rotate the engine for service access. Refer to Rotating the Engine for Service Access in Engine Mechanical.

    Object Number: 47610 Size: SH
  3. Remove the spark plug wires from the spark plugs. Refer to Spark Plug Wire Replacement .
  4. Remove the spark plugs from the engine.

Installation Procedure

    Notice: It is important to check the gap of all new and reconditioned spark plugs before installation. Pre-set gaps may have changed during handling. Use a round wire feeler gauge to be sure of an accurate check, particularly on used plugs. Installing plugs with the wrong gap can cause poor engine performance and may even damage the engine.

  1. Gap the spark plugs to the specifications. Refer to Ignition System Specifications .

    2. Object Number: 47610 Size: SH

    Notice: Be sure plug threads smoothly into cylinder head and is fully seated. Use a thread chaser if necessary to clean threads in cylinder head. Cross-threading or failing to fully seat spark plug can cause overheating of plug, exhaust blow-by, or thread damage. Follow the recommended torque specifications carefully. Over or under-tightening can also cause severe damage to engine or spark plug.

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  2. Install the spark plugs to the engine.

    3. Tighten

        • If installng the spark plugs to a new cylinder head tighten the spark plugs to 20N·m (15 lb ft).
        • If installing the spark plugs to an existing cylinder head tighten the spark plugs to 15N·m (11 lb ft).
  3. Install the spark plug wires to the spark plugs. Refer to Spark Plug Wire Replacement .
  4. If you are replacing the engine right bank (rear) spark plugs, perform the following steps:
    5. 4.1. Return the engine to the proper position. Refer to Rotating the Engine for Service Access in Engine Mechanical.
    4.2. Install the windshield wiper module cover. Refer to Wiper Motor Cover Replacement in Wipers Washer System.