How to Put Replacement Spark Plug Wires on a 2001 Ford Explorer

Spark plug wires on the 2001 Ford Explorer can wear out over time, causing roughness in the running of the engine. The 2001 Explorer base model was equipped with a 4.0-liter V-6 engine, but a stronger 5.0-liter V-8 was optional. The 2001 Explorer uses a distributorless ignition system that regulates the engine spark via an ignition control module and a coil module. Attention to wire routing is essential in performing this job correctly. The 5.0-liter V-8 wires are somewhat more difficult to change, but the process is the same for both engines types.

Instructions

1

Raise the hood of the Explorer. Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery with an open-end wrench.

2

Remove the first spark plug wire by the boot, pulling the plug wire off the spark plug, by hand. Twist the plug boot as you pull the wire free for easier removal of the wire. Follow the wire routing back to the coil module at the other end of the wire. Open any of the plastic clips that hold the wires, using a flat-head screwdriver. Pay close attention to the way the wire is routed through the engine compartment, as the new wire needs to go on identically.

3

Remove the spark plug wire from the coil module by pinching the two tabs between your thumb and finger. Pull the wire upward and off the coil module, removing it from the engine compartment. Match your old wire to the length of one of the new wires by spreading the new wires out in your work area.

4

Install the new plug wire onto the coil module, pushing it down until it clicks and locks into place. Route the wire identical to the way old wire was installed. Insert the wire into any holding clips, but do not lock the clips yet. Install the spark plug end of the wire onto the spark plug, and push it inward until it clicks. Tug on the wire gently to make sure it has a good grip on the spark plug.

5

Repeat Steps 2 through 4 to replace the remaining spark plug wires. Close the holding clips with your hand when you have completed each side of the engine's wiring. Some of the wires on the driver's side of the engine are made difficult to reach by the steering intermediate shaft. Use pliers to reach and remove any spark plug wires that you cannot reach with your hand. You can install new wires with the pliers as well, making sure you grab the wire boot.