Hi Guys

Could someone give me a step-by-step guide on changing the spark plugs in a 2.4L 4 cyl '97 TE?

I'm pretty sure I have to take off the engine cover (tappet cover?).
I've tried undoing the 6 nuts holding it on, but it won't budge.

Will I need a new gasket?

Any other advice appreciated...

I changed the oil and air filters, put new disk brakes in front and back, but can't even change spark plugs :(

you are kidding right????????????
you've got 4 leads on top of the engine.. pull them off,
put your spark plug remover down, turn anticlock wise and walllaaaa
spark plug out, put new spark plugs in, turn clock wise,
put your leads back in..
there is no need to remove engine covers, gaskets etc!!!!, just did mine 2 weeks ago
i don't know of any engine that you need to take the engine cover off to get to the plugs???

Tools required:

- Spark Plug Socket + Extension Bar (~250 mm) + Wrench.
- 4 New Spark Plugs.

Steps:

1) Remove the spark plug leads. This may take a little wiggling/pulling but don't worry too much, the leads are fairly tough.
2) Attach the socket + extension bar + wrench and remove the first spark plug. Do not force anything because if you cross-thread spark plug, your in trouble. If you've never used a socket wrench before, this task may not be for you.
3) Replace the spark plug by placing it in the socket and dropping it down into the spark plug well. Tighten it well, but as before, do not over-tighten or you will cross-thread the plug.
4) Repeat steps 2 & 3 to replace the other three spark plugs.
5) Replace the spark plug leads to their original position. Make sure they sit flat onto the block. If they don't you'll lose power to the sparks.

P.S. Sorry for the low-level steps, but I think this could be a useful thing to sticky or maybe to put into a guide.

Thanks for the replies guys.

I'll have to invest in a long extension for my spark plug remover socket.

Thanks for the replies guys.

I'll have to invest in a long extension for my spark plug remover socket.

Yeah, the recess is pretty massive. You'll see what I mean when you unplug the spark plug leads.

read the packet on how tight you screw the plugs in as this is fairly important they can be too loose or too tight.