Engine removal to change plugs?

[cosmart]

I just read on another thread that the engine must be removed to change the plugs, and that this is part of the 30,000 service. Even Chevys have 100K plugs now, so needing replacement at 30K is stupid. But dropping the engine to have to do it is even dumber.

When you add in the premium gas requirement, the cents per mile of the smart is starting to look higher than a large number of alternatives.

Does the engine have to be dropped to change the plugs?

[SMART]

Was this stated for the 450 or 451? Can you share the link with us?

[bbrandt]

is it true that the euro smartcars get 60mph? If I get one is it legal in U.S.A If it is changed in the US why?

[oldmike]

sight!!! read your manual please.

cosmart:

Remove the rear panel,
Use a heat shield tool from Mercedes to remove the shields, I have the part number.
A6385810267.
Replace plugs with OEM only. tighten to 22.5Nm
Reinstall shields
Reinstall rear panel,
it took me 30 minutes to do.

bbrandt

Yes, the European model fortwo 1999 til 2002 gave 500 km to a tank. still about 55mpg. Due to smaller engine 599cc and a smaller tank, also it had a 6th gear, lower rpm's meand lower revs and less gas.

and Yes, you can smuggle a 450 smart from canada or mexico, just don't get caught, the EPA has stiffer fines than state laws. you can probably get away with arm robbery better than EPA emmission violations.
Now go change your diaper....

[skyzdlimit59]

There is a thread somewhere here where there are pictures and step by step instructions posted on how to do it without removing the engine.

[saskdiesel]

Valve adjustment will require engine removal...........

[Fredvon4]

Spark plug change out proces is not in the 451 manua

There are NO heat shields to remove

The smart techs were trained that the power pack must be lowered to properly replace the plugs

I proved to myself that they come out and go back in just fine with the motor in place

The plugs get replaced a 30,000 and they are not iridum or platinum tipped..

For What It is worth I have never seen a 100,000 mile plug that was any good after 50,000 miles

I posted a thread about plug changing with a few crummy photos

http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/for...ug-change.html