Spark plug replacement Guide2011 Chevrolet Silverado
Complete DIY repair guide with step-by-step instructions. Find exact parts on Amazon for your vehicle.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Time
1.5-2.5 hours
Parts Needed
1 items
DIY Savings
$100-400+
2011 Chevrolet Silverado — What You Need to Know
- →5.3L LS has ALUMINUM cylinder heads — 11 ft-lbs maximum plug torque. Many DIYers strip threads by over-tightening
- →8 plugs total on V8 — budget 1.5-2.5 hours. Passenger side rear (cylinder 8) is the tightest
- →Apply anti-seize to plug threads to prevent future seizing, especially if vehicle is used in northern climates
- →ACDelco 41-962 is the OEM plug — NGK TR55IX iridium is an excellent upgrade with longer service life
Torque Specs
Spark plugs: 11 ft-lbs MAXIMUM (aluminum heads) | Coil bolts: 89 in-lbs (7.4 ft-lbs)
Safety Warnings
- •CRITICAL: 5.3L has aluminum cylinder heads — do NOT exceed 11 ft-lbs torque or you will strip threads
- •Plugs are often seized from years of service — apply penetrating oil, work hot/cold cycles if stuck
Tools Required
5/8" spark plug socket
6" and 12" extensions
Universal joint
Torque wrench
Parts Needed
Spark Plugs (set of 8)Gap: 0.040 inch — pre-set on iridium
Shop on AmazonOEM 12571164ACDelco 41-962 / NGK TR55IX iridium
Basic Procedure Overview
- 1Remove plastic engine cover
- 2Disconnect individual coil packs (10mm bolt each)
- 3Use 5/8" socket with 6" extension — plugs are recessed deep in valve cover tubes
- 4Break loose slowly — if excessive resistance, apply penetrating oil and wait 20 minutes
- 5Gap check new plugs at 0.040 inch, thread in by hand
- 6Torque to ONLY 11 ft-lbs — aluminum threads are easily damaged
- 7Apply dielectric grease to coil boots before reinstalling
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