Yes, you do need to remove the air cleaner, then the two plugs on that side are easy.
The two on the left are only a little more difficult because of the A/C compressor.
A u-joint helps, as well as short and long extensions as needed.
Be sure to clean the area around the plug before removing so no debris falls in the
hole.
Apply anti-seize SPARINGLY to threads on new plugs.
Good luck,
Jerry

----- Original Message -----
From: "Matthew C. Huntley" <matthew.huntley@STRATHBOGIE.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Friday, January 14, 2005 10:31 AM
Subject: Spark Plugs

> I am enbarking on something simple, like changing the sparkplugs. I am
> still waiting for my copy of the Bentley shop manual, so I thought I would
> throw my questions out here.
> I have a 1986 Vanagon GL, with AC and AT.
> Do I have to move the air cleaner canister to get to one of the spark plugs?
> Does anyone have any hints/tips on getting to all 4 plugs?
> Will a U-joint on my socket-set help?
>
> Thanks,
> Matt Huntley
>
> --
> Any opinions stated here are my own, otherwise someone else would have
> said them.