Changing Plugs on high mileage 2000 EB, should I just not tempt fate?

[EEVW]

Bought a 2000 EB with 180,000 miles...showroom condition.
Was running great till the altenator died, replaced and now runs a with a little rough/shudder.

Thinking of changing plugs and coils.

Assuming previous owner had not changed the plugs in a while ( over 100,000 miles perhaps), I'm wondering if I should forget it. Im afraid that I might start having the infamous spark plug issues.

Gas mileage is okay...12.5-14 mpg in city ( old lady driving), 16-17 on highway @ 70 mph.

What is your take? Do I temp fate?

 

[timothyfleming]

maybe the computer is relearning. I would replace the plugs anyways. mine had 130,000 on them when i replaced them. the gap was up to 80 thousanths from 55 (due to wear). it took me 4 hours on the 5.4. get a good cushion to lay on. anyways while i was replacing mine i found the pcv valve on the left valve cover was off, this was causing it to run lean. because it was covered by hoses i wouldve never found this if i had not replaced the plugs. the weird thing is that the mpg acually went down after fixing these two problems due to it not running lean. I would definatly replace the plugs its better sooner than later. all of mine came out easy, one came out too easy. theres a small chance that one could get stuck, but theres a big chance that your gonna have to do it soon anyways.

 

[11b4v]

yes, plugs and wires. when they start to go, you'll get a some stuttering while driving. usually around 100k to 120k

 

[GAINMOB]

if its cops...i'd let the factory change them...they break off in the engine...even on dealership mechanics and it can turn into a 2-day job

 

[Glxy500]

Changing the plugs and coils are very simple. A 7mm socket and a small plug socket. #4 will give you the most problem. I use a bungee cord to hold the heater hoses out of the way. sometimes the spring will come out of the boot and stay on the plug. The boot comes off of the coil anyway, so no biggie. You shouldnt have to take anything off. Lot of techs pull the fuel rail, but the coils and boots are agile enough to get by it. Motorcraft 22mw are factory plugs.Hope this helps you EEVW.