RAM 1500 Truck 2WD V8-5.7L VIN D (2003)
Spark Plug: Service and Repair
Spark Plug Replacement
REMOVAL
Eight of the 16 spark plugs are located under an ignition coil; the other 8 are not. If spark plug being removed is under coil, coil must be removed to
gain access to spark plug. Refer to Ignition Coil Removal/ Installation and observe all CAUTIONS and WARNINGS.
Before removing or disconnecting any spark plug cables, note their original position. Remove cables one-at-a-time. To prevent ignition crossfire,
spark plug cables MUST be placed in cable tray (routing loom) into their original position. Refer to Spark Plug Cable Removal for a graphic.
Before installing spark plug cables to either the spark plugs or coils, apply dielectric grease to inside of boots.
1. Remove necessary air filter tubing at throttle body.
2. Prior to removing ignition coil (if coil removal is necessary), spray compressed air around coil base at cylinder head cover.
3. Prior to removing spark plug, spray compressed air into cylinder head opening. This will help prevent foreign material from entering combustion
chamber.
4. Remove spark plug from cylinder head using a quality socket with a rubber or foam insert.
5. Inspect spark plug condition. Refer to Diagnostics and Testing - Spark Plug Conditions.
INSTALLATION
1. Special care should be taken when installing spark plugs into the cylinder head spark plug wells. Be sure the plugs do not drop into the plug wells
as electrodes can be damaged.
2. Start the spark plug into cylinder head by hand to avoid cross threading aluminum threads. To aid in installation, attach a piece of rubber hose, or
an old spark plug boot to spark plug.
3. The 5.7L V-8 is equipped with torque critical design spark plugs. Do not exceed 15 ft. lbs. torque. Tighten spark plugs. Refer to torque
specifications.
4. Before installing spark plug cables to either the spark plugs or coils, apply dielectric grease to inside of boots.
5. To prevent ignition crossfire, spark plug cables MUST be placed in cable tray (routing loom) into their original position. Refer to Spark Plug
Cable Removal for a graphic.
6. Install ignition coil(s) to necessary spark plugs. Refer to Ignition Coil Installation.
7. Install spark plug cables to remaining spark plugs. Remember to apply dielectric grease to inside of boots.
