Spring tune-up observations...

[LI_SHO]

Today I got elbow deep in the SHO to do some much needed maintenance. I changed out the WELL worn Motocraft AGSP32PP plugs and replaced them with Denso double platinums.

After installation, the plug wire boots fit on with NO problems and the car fired up very smoothly. From the get go I noticed a difference with the new plugs which I gapped a little bigger than stock spec. The AutoZone part number for the plugs I used is 3134. They are a little pricey, but fit OEM specs.

Also, I decided to try out a new oversized filter on my car. For the ultimate in filtration and flow capactiy, I picked up a K&N HP-3001 oil filter. It is the size of the Mobil M1-301 but offers filtration for smaller particles as well as higher flow rates for cold oil (consult oil discussion thread from a few weeks ago).

In all, the car got new front brakes (Albany Semi-Metallics), spark plugs, and fresh oil (Castrol GTX of course ). Does anyone know where I could get the 598 sized brakes for my '96 upgrade in carbon-metallic? If anyone has the autozone part number it'd be greatly appreciated!


EDIT
Heres some photos of the oil tests which influenced my filter choice...keep in mind the oil is put into the filter at 40psi and the output is shown.

<small>[ April 22, 2003, 12:30 AM: Message edited by: LI_SHO ]</small>

 

[Mr Anonymous]

I'm curious why you would spend more on the 'pricey' Denso plugs when at best they are equivalent to the $3.99 AGSP32PP plugs???

For the 598 pads, someone has previously reported that PFCM now makes a 598-size pad, although I'm not sure what retailers have it available otc or via special order. If you don't mind spending $50-$60, I've been extremely happy with the Raybestos ceramic pads.

 

[SilverSHO]

Wow. I had been considering the K&N oil filter for some time, but couldn't justify $11 for an oil filter until now.

 

[LI_SHO]

SHOooo:
I'm curious why you would spend more on the 'pricey' Denso plugs when at best they are equivalent to the $3.99 AGSP32PP plugs???

Because I cant get the AGSP32PP plugs through work, and wanted a plug that would be the best for my car. After reading posts here on the forum, theres no way I'm sticking Bosch platinum plugs in my car...
If I'm going to do work on a 9 year old car, I'd rather spend the money and do it right.

 

[Leon]

Silversho....keep in mind that the Fram filter in that bobistheoilguy test out flowed the K&N!...LIsho isn`t showing all the comparisons in the post.....

 

[LI_SHO]

...but everyone knows the FRAM is junk. It filters next to nothing compared to the k&n