How to remove spark plugs in 2001 challenger 2000, optimax 200

[mmclean]

I've had this boat for a couple years, and I suspect the spark plugs are original. I'm sure I'd see some performance improvement by changing them out at this point, and it's probably imminent I'll start seeing problems from it.

What's the easiest way to get to these plugs? I don't think I can even put my hand on the 4 out of 6 plugs right now, without removing something. Do I need to remove the expansion chamber (Is that hard to get to, also?)? Is it easier to pull the whole powerhead out (though I don't have an engine hoist)?

 

[Lumps]

Hi Mike.

My challenger 2000 came with a small spark plug wrench. It's eventually a small tube crimped into a hex on one end. The other end has a hole for a bar to provide leverage. I have a 240 efi so I don't know if it's the same. But I couldn't get a standard socket wrench to work either so I suspect it's the same.

 

[mmclean]

Hmmm. I haven't seen that.
Did you have to remove the expansion tank to use that tool? And, I assume you bought your challenger new (ie. this is a factory-supplied tool, as opposed to some cleaver macgyver-ing)?
Lastly, does anyone know the best way to get the back hatch off? I assume remove the struts, then either unbolt half the hinges or pop the hinge-centers out?

 

[mmclean]

Oh, are you just talking about something like this: http://www.motosport.com/motion-pro-spark-plug-wrench

 

[Lumps]

Yes it's very similar but not as nice as that one. It came with the boat. My last boat also had one too so I assumed it was a standard feature. I haven't had to remove anything to get the plugs out but it's tight. I have never taken the back hatch off. I tried on my last boat and gave up.