I am looking at the engine and it has what looks like 5 plastic tubes going into the manifold. Perhaps this is a air intake manifold???

Anywhoo, HOW do I get to the spark plugs to change them??? The bolts in the front where the plastic meets the metal look like a good start but, I'm afraid if I do that, I will need to replace the intake manifold gasket...

ANY and ALL help would be greatly appreciated!!!

 

Yes, you will have to remove the intake plenum to get to the spark plugs. Might as well pick up the gasket.
Stan

 

Thanks Stan. Do you know if its a pain in the butt undertaking? Do the bolts that hold down the intake plenum need to be torqed? If so, would you know how many ft. lbs?? thank you!

 

I am not sure since I have a T5 but I'll try to look it up for you.
Stan

 

Ok, it looks like there is a gasket.

The intake manifold (lower section to cylinder head) 19Nm, (upper section) 10Nm. I think you just need the upper section.

Note: after you remove the upper section, cover the intake hold of the lower section with tape to prevent entry of debris.

Spark plugs 28Nm

Stan

 

I just replaced my spark plugs in my 2.4i this morning. It was really easy once you get the intake manifold cover off. You have to disconnect the wire connector on top and then lift the intake manifold cover towards the right as if you're opening a book and let it rest, rather than trying to take all the tubes and connectors out of the right side.