QuestionHow to change spark plugs and distributor cap. Is it a job better done by a professional or is it relatively easy. I want to do a general tune up and oil change to a 2003 chevy S10 pick up for my neighbor. Let me know. Done lots of tune ups on older vehicles 1989 and under. So I don't know how big of a task this will be.
AnswerHi Louie,
These cars of today are easier for a tune-up. Not much to do. Most everything is supposed to last 100,000 miles, but being old school, I don't trust that.
You have DIS (distributorless Ignition System). That means NO CAP or ROTOR. These systems carry enough current to knock you down, if the car is running. I have heard of plug wires jumping arc, and mechanics grabbing them and dropping so hard to the ground that they break their knee, or jaw on the fender. Be careful around the wires if the car is running.
On a car like that, if I am performing a tune-up, I change the plugs, PCV, fuel filter, air intake cleaner, 'Serpentine' belt, wires, O2, and oil and filter - AS NEEDED. There are no adjustments, and very few parts.
O2 sensors are pricey nowadays, so only change this if you suspect it is starting to fail.
Fuel filter, and PCV are just good measure.
Air Intake cleaner you can tell by looking if it is neccessary.
Wires are on an as needed basis, but usually only last about 50,000 or 60,000 miles. They can go the whole 100,000 miles, but start to break down with age. Especially with the current they carry. If you wait, and they start arcing, they may put a stray high voltage signal into a computer or a sensor. This would fry the part, and be more expensive than just replacing the wires now. OEM parts here.
Plugs are PLATNUM and are expensive. Don't go cheap here, or on the wires. The $3 Bosch are actually not very good. You should stay with OEM (like AC/Delco).
'Serpentine' accessory drive belt is bad if it shows alot of cracks on the ribbed face.
Oil and filter are just like the old days. Use the correct stuff, and there is no change here. You may find the filter under the hood, behind the drivers headlight, and behind an air intake housing. They came with 'remote filters' if there was a front 4x4 axle in the way of where it should be on the motor.
Don't forget to top off all liquids (brake fluid, steering fluid, anti-freeze, windshield wiper solvent, transmission fluid if needed).
If your neighbor went to a shop, he would pay around $40 to $70 +parts, for a tune-up. They would only get plugs for that, and only about 30 minutes time to change them. Doing a tune-up my way, they get a much better tune-up. They will be happier and you will have a customer for life.
Good luck. I hope this helps.
C J S
