Need help changing spark plugs & wires

[DiscoOrd]

My dealer just told me that I have to spend $1100 to change the spark plugs and wires on my 2001 Disco because the wires are arcing. He mentioned that the intake manifold had to be removed to properly perform the service otherwise the $400 coils would be damaged. I'm somewhat of a gearhead and would like to do it myself. Does anybody have any experience with this and/or service diagrams I can use to refer to? Also, what are the best plugs and wires I should use and there's something about the intake gasket??? Help needed... Thanks in advance

 

[S Marks]

Daniel, there is no need to pull the intake plenum. Remove the wire loom from the loops on the top of the firewall and dive in. It is a little cramped back there, but it can be done. It helps if you have hands the size of a 5 year old. Just replace them one at a time and you should not have any issues.

As for wire and plugs, I went Magnecore wires and the recommended Champion plugs. Some folks run the hotter, more $ plugs, but from everything I have seen and read, people seem to have less issues with the stock type plugs.

 

[Hoot]

magnecors are a safe bet for an upgrade over stockers. I have also had recommended to me the NGK iridiums by my rover mech. they are spendy but i have had them for a few months now and now adverse effects.

 

[MTNHDWR]

Alum. Heads

FYI,
You are probably aware that the heads on your D2 are aluminum. That means be especially careful not to cross thread those plugs when putting them back in. Also, from experience, always use an anti-sieze compond before attempting to remove your old plugs. The steel plugs "stick" to the aluminum head, when you try to back them out . . .your threads get f&$*ed.

 

[DiscoOrd]

Thanks guys for the advice. What size wire is best? I've read that people have installed 7mm, 8mm, and 8.5mm.

 

[rover4x4]

The 7mm will fit in the stock loom the 8mm will be a tight fit and the 8.5mm will require you to get new looms, you can get them from www.jegs.com for a minimal price. I think the 7mm is the stock size... FWIW