How to Change Spark Plug Wires in a 1996 Chevrolet Lumina 3.1L

For the 1996 Chevy Lumina equipped with the 3.1-liter engine, Chevy recommends inspecting the spark plug wires every 97,500 miles. If you find a damaged spark plug wire, the wires should be replaced as a set to maintain the integrity and performance of the ignition system. This project requires only basic hand tools to accomplish.

Instructions

1

Allow the engine to cool. Remove a spark plug wire from one of the front three spark plugs, by using the spark plug wire pliers to twist the spark plug wire boot until it is loosened from the plug. Pull up and twist the boot to unsnap the boot from the plug. Avoid pulling on the plug wire itself.

2

Unsnap the spark plug wire retainer clips from the spark plug wire retainers, using a pocket screwdriver. Slip the plug wire from the retainers and remove the wire from the ignition coil located on the engine below the exhaust manifold.

3

Unscrew the old spark plug from the engine if you are replacing the spark plugs at this time. Check and correct the spark plug gap on the new spark plug, using a spark plug gaping tool. The correct spark plug gap for the 3.1-liter engine is 0.060 inch. Install the new spark plug into the engine and torque the spark plug to between 11 and 15 foot pounds.

4

Compare the old spark plug wire to the new spark plug wires and select the new wire that is closest to the old one in length. Apply a dab of dielectric grease to the inside of the spark plug wire boots. Snap the new plug wire onto the coil pack and route the wire through the retainers in the same manner it was routed. Snap the new plug wire onto the new spark plug. Repeat the process for the remaining two spark plug wires -- and plugs, if applicable -- on the front of the engine. Snap the retainer clip onto the retainer to hold the wires in place.

5

Unbolt the two motor mounts that attach the engine to the radiator core support brackets on top of the core support, using a 15 mm socket and ratchet to loosen the nuts while holding the bolt with a 15 mm wrench.

6

Slip the engine-side mount bolt back into the engine-side mount bracket and through a short piece of sturdy chain. Insert a pry-bar into the engine bracket and pull the engine toward the front of the car. Slip the radiator core support bracket bolt through the other end of the chain, and into the bracket, to hold the engine in the rotated position.

7

Replace the spark plugs and spark plug wires in the same manner as previously outlined, making sure to apply dielectric grease to the spark plug boots. The rear spark plug wire boots are protected by a metal heat shield. Slide the heat shield off the old spark plug wire and onto the new spark plug wire before snapping the wire onto the spark plug.

8

Pry the engine forward and remove the chain and bracket bolts. Reinstall the engine mounts and tighten the bolts securely to prevent noises when the engine torques against the mounts during acceleration and deceleration.