I got the plugs changed but what a pain. There is only about 1.5" between the engine and the frame, so little you have to put the tools in one at a time (socket, extension, ratchet).

 

The only way to make this job less of a pain would be to raise the engine. Anyone have a solution? I know you only have to do it every 60K or so, but the designers weren't thinking of the Mechanic.

I've been looking at those wondering how the hek my hand was going in there!! The designer must have had really small hands! Good tip on separated tool insertion!! Was it tought to get the wire off without skinning a knuckle?

i remove the rubber insert from the spark plug socket so that i can get the socket off easily from the spark plug when reinstalling it.

 

when removing the spark plug, i first pull the boot, then insert the spark plug socket, then a 3" extension, then a u joint, then a long extension and rachet. once the plug is loose, get to the plug in the reverse order. it can be done without raising the engine. just take your time. remember antiseize and also dielectric grease to make getting the wires off easier next time.

Originally posted by lmdew

.....The only way to make this job less of a pain would be to raise the engine.......

 

It's called a legacy.

 

Because of the subframe spacers the outback uses, it makes the plugs hard to change. It's not so bad in the standard legacy as the motor sits higher in the bay (or the bay sits lower around the motor).