99 I30 - Shakes and shudders

[dankyoudotcom]

I took my car to the shop a while back because it shook a lot while idling and while driving at all speeds. The check engine light would flash, etc. So they said it was spark plug problems, and that I'd have to change all of them.

They ended up changing only 2 because they said they were the most faulty ones, but I don't know if they used the right plugs.

What are the right spark plugs? I've heard NGK's are good? and something about double electrodes? I'm not sure.

I'm a neophyte and I want to get into cars.

Also, my engine still gives little kicks and quivers here and there, similar to before, but definitely a lesser degree. Does that mean that the plugs are misfiring?

Also, what tools do I need to change the plugs myself for this car?

Is the gapper necessary?

I know it's a lot of questions, and some may be in the wrong section of the forum, but thank you in advanced!

[Mr.Twister]

Shakes and shudders could be from a lot of things. When my MAF went out in my S13 it did the same exact things that you explained except worse.

Changing your plugs couldnt hurt anything. NGK Platinums is the OEM recommended plugs, so use those. When I bought my 240 and my I30 they both had Bosch platinums that were new. After replacing them with NGK's both cars ran much better. Plus if you use the NGK plugs they come pre-gapped. I have checked the gap numerous times for NGK's and they always are right on the money. (so basically you dont need to gap em)

Changing your plugs should be pretty straight forward, except be carefull when pulling out the coil packs. They are delicate.

Good luck

[dankyoudotcom]

Thanks Twister, that's what I needed to know!

Also, is there a specific NGK model number for the '99 I30?

I'm looking at NGK PFR6G-11 (Double platinum)...would that work?

Modified by dankyoudotcom at 12:22 PM 3/7/2008

I bought PFR5G-11 NGK btw.

I was also looking at Yahoo answers, and one person asked about misfiring. His mechanic told him that bad ignition coils can cause misfires, but he could not find out which coil was the faulty one. My mechanic said the same thing.

What should I do? Should I just start with changing the spark plugs and see the results after? cuz you said it never hurts to change spark plugs.

Also, what specific tools do I need to change spark plugs?

Thanks for your time!!


Modified by dankyoudotcom at 2:17 PM 3/7/2008

[Mr.Twister]

http://www.ngksparkplugs.com/p...24514

this should help
Modified by Mr.Twister at 2:27 PM 3/7/2008

[dankyoudotcom]

Thanks Mr. Twister. I bought the plugs already, but the site also has instructions!