1999 3.3 voyager spark plugs

One more question for the experienced Chrysler mechanics...

I'm replacing spark plugs on this vehicle. I took the alternator and
the upper alternator bracket off to access plug #1 as recommended in the
manual, but 3 and 5 are impossible without further disassembly. The
manual says to remove the intake strut, but I doubt that this will be
enough. As far as I can tell, I will have to drop the exhaust pipe and
come up from underneath.

I have changed plugs on earlier model 3.3 vans without taking apart
everything the manual says to take apart, so I know there's more than
one way to get it done. Do you guys have any good tricks? Should I
just go ahead and drop the exhaust?

By the way, when did Chrysler hire the Marquis De Sade to design engine
compartments?

 

If you hold your mouth just right, you can get them from below without
undoing the exhaust. The exhaust is really simple, though...it's a lot
easier than it sounds. Just be sure to disconnect the O2 sensor. You
can also remove the wiper module for top access. Again, that sounds
worse than it is. Takes 5 minutes with some practice and air tools.

 

The funny part of all of this is that the three in front were burned up
when I took them out, and the one in back was REALLY burned up. I'm
guessing that somebody else gave up on it about 50,000 miles ago.

 

I tried following the book on my 98 3.3 Caravan. Their procedure does
NOT work. You can't get to the bracket on the back of the intake
plenum.
Go from bottom. no need to disconnect anything. Just patience and a
good set of socket adapters. Been there - done that.

I'm going to have them replaced by the shop on my next 41TE
transmission overhaul. The interval is about the same.
Presently 133k mi. Transmission $ 1600 @ 110mi. Still better than my
last Caravan, let go at 120k mi and third transmission.

BTW I owe a debt of thanks to all the posters that helped me with
radiator drain problems.

Also the sway bar rubber bushings still looked good when I removed
them but the new ones ( $ 12 ) do NOT clunk !!!!!!!!!

The advice about not letting the parking brake pedal not slam up has
helped tremendously with that sorry POS design.

Now if I can just get the door lock system, etc working.