Hello, I'm new to the forum and just bought a 2003 Tracker 2.0. 4cylinder 4wd.
I'm in the process of replacing my plugs when I noticed the 2nd spark plug from the front is hard to get to. I can't fit my extension socket because it hits the black bar on top of the engine running from side to side. Do you guys remove that bar to install that 2nd plug? Or is there a technique to it?

Thanks in advance for any comments

I'm also looking for a service manual online. If someone can show me where I can buy one or better yet download a free one?

 

Don't have your answer....sorry. Interested in your question and replies because I bought an 03 I4 4x4 with 91k miles just last week. No service history so new plugs are in the near future. Got to be a technique to extract the #2 plug without removing the structural crossmember. I'll take a look and report back any ideas.

 

this strut tower brace? just a couple of bolts holding it down, right? take it off.


2.0 Liter DOHC 16-Valve 4 Cylinder Engine for the 2002 Chevrolet Tracker #58399325 | GTCarLot.com

 

Sledge,
I tried removing the 3 small bolts and tried to move it but it seems like it's stuck on there. maybe i just have to be a man and pry it harder?. I just hate to break something.
there's another bigger bolt on the middle, it seems like it might be holding the shocks? not too sure.
The extension I'm using to hold the spark plug socket is 1/2 drive. i'm going to buy a 3/8 extension and see if that is slim enough so the bar does not get in the way
thanks for the input btw.

 

Straight from the service manual and not a hint to what to do with the brace

 

But here is how to remove/install if you need to..

 

Thanks for the replies. I finally got it out without removing the Support brace.
If you use a long 3/8 drive extension and go past the support brace, you have just enough space to make it work. so dont use a 1/2 drive extension like i did.
Or if you use a shorter extension with a pivot that will work as well.

 

Oh. I had thought you had tried every whacky extension/swivel combination.

Well, glad to hear your got it swapped.

 

Interesting you need to get the wheels off the ground. It must relieve some inward caving pressures.