Engine Tune Up (Spark plugs wires distributor cap rotor) - GMC Safari Astro AWD

Motor tune up - general concept applies to most vehicles.
***Please ask any questions; I love helping others =)
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You may be interested in my ignition coil replacement video: • GM (Safari Astro) igni...
A shorter video encouraging the DIY in you to do it! You don't need expensive tools to get the job done! • GM (Safari Astro) dist...

[@ryanhenderson4868]

This is one of the best informational videos I've seen on youtube in a while. I was gonna just replace the spark plugs, but now I'm motivated to replace the wires, cap and rotor and well!

[@AbrahamChan88]

You welcome! Thank you for the comment as well! How old is the vehicle and the mileage? I am going to change the primary ignition coil soon - just need time to do it and I would recommend to get yours done as well depending on age and symptoms... Or you can test it using the spark tester from the ignition coil wire.

[@ryanhenderson4868]

@@AbrahamChan88 My pride and joy is a 1999 Astro. 48,000 miles! Reason I'm looking up these videos is I just had a sputtering start today. Didn't start until the 3rd start. Figured it wouldn't hurt to upgrade everything you showed here. I also have a 4" lift on mine. So I'm excited to hear it makes this process easier.

[@AbrahamChan88]

@@ryanhenderson4868 super easy with the lift haha. When I first got my truck, I lowered it... Then I never bought the ZR2 that I was eyeing and so I lifted this truck to do it all :) are you able to remove your Muffler and cat to check if anything is clogged? Don't forget these motors are large at 4.3L that anything blocking the exhaust would result in the computer trying to adjust ignition to compensate this making it appear to be things in the ignition... Which will go bad as well under these situation.

[@ryanhenderson4868]

@@AbrahamChan88 I'll definitely try! Should I start with plugs first though? Then check the muffler and cat? What's a priority with the symptoms I've explained. And thank-you for helping me out and actually replying :) She started up good later in the day. I've heard that moisture (aka: parked next to my sprinklers last night - don't usually park there and rain last night) could have contributed? Thoughts on that?

[@AbrahamChan88]

@@ryanhenderson4868 if it is moisturize related, it is often the coil... Check out the astrosafari van websites for the hundreds of examples including mine lol Everything in this video is very easy to do, so you could start with it... The exhaust is harder to tell as the culprit until it is really bad because from my experience (2x now) it is only under heavy load that I know due to the power "lost" as the hot exhaust can't get out... Hence why I asked if you are comfortable removing the exhaust (just bolts and the hangers) them use a flashlight (and shaking lol) to check if there is clogging. In other words I am positive if you start with the ignition stuff the vehicle will run well but if your power stuttering issues are random and exhaust related the new ignition stuff will be worked hard and need replacement yet again

[@nicolashernandez9103]

Abraham Chan tank u so much to load this video this it help me a lot ( TANK YOU

[@AbrahamChan88]

Happy to have helped!

[@jamesliverpool3501]

your a life saver!!..thx from Atlanta ga 👍

[@AbrahamChan88]

Feel free to ask questions!

[@cymatic83]

Great video, very helpful. Thanks!

[@AbrahamChan88]

If you have any questions, feel free to ask!

[@juliobustamante451]

Rad! about to do this to my 2000 GMC safari. Looking forward to adventures

[@AbrahamChan88]

If you have questions or run into problems, feel free to drop a comment! I have a lot of footage for this vehicle but somewhat waiting to redo it all in HD... Previously captured in the early 2000s with a "big" handcam :) Sub to get latest updates when I do post more videos!

[@juliobustamante451]

@@AbrahamChan88 I currently waiting on plugs, wires, cap and rotor from rock auto. My Service AWD light is on and it seems it may need a new T case motor. gonna do the tune up 1st as the scan tool tells me i have a misfire in cyl6. once that gets fixed ill fix the AWD issue. Also she pulls a bit to the right on a hard brake. checked the steering components and there seems to bit a small amount of play at the pitman arm. cant tell if its the ball joints as they arent too beat. may just need grease. not sure...

[@arcaproinc6737]

Thank you for your video.very helpful

[@debbied7803]

Excellent video TY

[@glowdog6321]

Well done!

[@rawlelowe7021]

very good stuff you help a lot thanks

[@AbrahamChan88]

You are welcome! Feel free to check out my channel for other related videos.

[@ronaldezekiel782]

That me a lot. on my drivers side it looks like it's hard to get to my number 5 spark plug. this just made it look easier.

[@AbrahamChan88]

Sorry, missed your comment! Did you get it all done okay?

[@isaacb4955]

Whats the kw rating on each spark plug wire? My ac delco wire set isn’t numbered, they only have the kw rating numbers and the wire lengths are really close.

[@gerardomedina7458]

Muchas gracias you save me

[@AbrahamChan88]

Ask any question and I will do my best help :)

[@veggiepowered]

I'am Your Newest Subscriber Great Videos I Just Got A 1999 Astro Van. You Didnt Say Were The Cap And Rotor Were Made ? China ? Is The NGK Still Made In Japan ?

[@AbrahamChan88]

Awesome! I have other videos up on this channel for the vehicle so don't hesitate to ask any questions!!! Slim chance but it would be cool if GM brought back a version of this M-Body!!! Maybe, just maybe on the same EV platform of their trucks to do a Savanna/Express for all the commerical needs but include a passenger version :)

[@JoshuaFinancialPL]

Super helpful thanks very much. subbed! but HOW did you get a spark plug socket onto #6? it looked like it would be next to impossible. I just bought a 2004 safari sle with 153k yesterday and need to do this (and more). I would have NO clue without your video.

[@AbrahamChan88]

At the 12:00 mark, I show a zoomed in view (talking about the spark wire length issue) but what I did was put the truck on jack stands to allow the tires to drop lower giving more space to get into that tight spot. You can also access from top down via the open doghouse BUT only if you have small hands (or can ask someone with small hands to help). The driver side straight on plug is harder ... you will get there soon =)

[@paulkrueger69]

ON A FULL TUNE UP FOR THIS VEHICLE WHAT ELSE DO YOU CHANGE EGR,?AND/OR OTHER?

[@AbrahamChan88]

Sorry, I just saw this message - for sure, pull off the EGR and give it a clean. Lots mileage? Maybe do the ignition coil (which I should post that video one day) --- check all your vacuum lines while you are at it.

[@trennardgilbert6581]

Hey do u kno what will make the van stall when u push the gas it die down

[@AbrahamChan88]

There can be many reasons why the vehicle would stall; Can you give more information? For example, if you just use 5% or 15% or 30% throttle does it diff in the response? What is meant by die down; Instant death or no power to move on a flat surface at xyz throttle with load?

[@tarap5618]

Any videos on solar hookup? Would love to connect one to my battery also. Thanks

[@AbrahamChan88]

Yes, a few random posting on my channel, check it out and ask any questions.

[@OKBAOK]

Hi, do you also put dielectric grease on the wire boot when you insert the wire on the distributor cap? thanks, good video🙂

[@AbrahamChan88]

Yes a dabble but not much; to combat any moisture. At a Astro Safari meet long ago, we had a member who had gremlins from start up to acceleration and said the fix was always to do a tune up - we suggested to use dielectric grease (after asking him to walk us through his tune up process, which this was missing) and when he did apply some, he stopped needing to do tune ups as often heh he lived in a very wet environment and like I, the truck is outside 24/7.

[@OKBAOK]

@@AbrahamChan88 Hi and thanks for your reply👍🙂 I'm on my number 5 spark plugs yesterday I crossed tread my number 5 plug. When I tried to remove it I stand up and and put force because it's too tight really tight. It broke loose but big pack sound more louder then the others plug..Then in the middle is tight again I checked the plugs is not straight until came out not straight🙁 I cleaned the hole my new plugs doesn't want to come in, even gentle or hard push 4 times 🙁...When I look at the hole no run way on the first way it rounded🙁 I felt like hot water came in to my body thinking how to fix it is a major problem. I took a break and Prayed bro, pick-up my wife from work driving sad and weak. Got home I said I'll put another new plugs my last plug, so I did put anti-seize again tried again for the fifth time it bite then tight it then came out again🙁😢 I yelled OMG! 3 times bro from the Heart then I accepted that hole is busted🙁 and I surrendered that no more solution. For the last time feeling to try it again it bite again tight it again then I felt it didn't get lighter until I'm kept on tighting it I pull my socket just to make sure the plug still there and I noticed is half way in I continued until it went all the way in straight 😀😀😀🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 after that I said thank you God ! thank you🙂 I felt cold water in my body with joy bro👍🙂🙏🏻.. I stopped from there. I experience Miracle from God bro🙂🙏🏻 sorry too long🙂 thanks for reading it. Stay safe and have a Blessed Sunday🙏🏻

[@AbrahamChan88]

@@OKBAOK lol that was quite the story and I am glad the spark plug is in. Hopefully there really isn't any damage and with the anti-seize applied you are giving it the best chance for the next future change - hopefully not any time soon. Even though you didn't use any power tools, this is exactly the reason when I usually recommend folks to use hand power tool only, and to remember, anytime you need apply more force, think twice and check many times before forcefully doing something 😅

[@OKBAOK]

@@AbrahamChan88 Yes thanks for the advice on applying more force 👍🙂

[@TheDrewCharles]

97 safari, Oil fill cap is stuck. Where does the oil fill tube join the engine? Can a new oil fill tube be installed through the dog house?

[@AbrahamChan88]

Might not sound hl helpful, but yes, with the dog house off you can see the tube end. With the stuck cap, try tapping it all round the cap and the tube to dislodge has much dirt as possible... Then while standing on a small stool, grip the tube with one hand and with your other hand and body weight (hence the stool) push down on the cap and twist back and forth --- this worked for me on a members vehicle long ago lol

[@jz7z409]

My mechanic just replaced the spark plugs, wires, fuel filter in my 2005 GMC Safari and now is making a hissing noise when I step on the gas pedal it wasn’t making that noise before can you tell me what can I do the mechanic says it’s fine but it wasn’t making it before

[@AbrahamChan88]

Is the hissing noise coming from the distributor cap and rotor? Do you know how to take off the doghouse and use a "rod" like a stethoscope to listen to where the noise is coming from?

[@MrEatuup]

Where u could get one of those little gadget screen??. Good video

[@AbrahamChan88]

Do you mean the ScanGauge? Google it :) that said, it depends with what you want to achieve, if just to read codes when you need it, look up Bluedriver (I use this as well).

[@raysylvia2846]

I do ngk also

[@isaacb4955]

How you actually run/fish the spark plug wires from the #1cyl to the #1 of the distributer? Please show everything I need to get this done right once I start or else have it towed back to my street parking -no driveway- 😑

[@AbrahamChan88]

Hi Isaac, are the old spark plug wires still in the vehicle? You would route the new spark plug wire(s) in the same way. If for whatever reason the #1 spark plug wire is missing, the routing is pretty simple as the "clips" are in place to route along the motor to distributor cap as shown in the video. All the wires on each side run parallel to each other to the distributor cap.

[@bobsbarnworkshop]

I have a 2001 Astro with 95k miles that ran great when I bought it last summer, now all of a sudden it won't even start. then it ran fine for a couple days. now no start again. Did you have to do the plugs, wires and distributor as a fix or just general maintenance? I have perfect fuel pressure (I have a gauge)

[@AbrahamChan88]

Are you able to provide some more details on what "it won't even start" means? Does the engine crank/turn over? Does it crank but appear to choke to death? Lots of things to assume and I rather have some more details instead of blanket stating "Yes, change it all" =) Out of curiosity, how cold does it get right now where you are located? This vehicle does some weird things in -25C weather! :p

[@bobsbarnworkshop]

it cranks fast (new battery) but acts like there's a kill switch on....I tested fuel pressure and it's jumps to 61 psi while cranking and back to 55 with ignition on.... I tested for spark with a strobe timing light and I'm getting spark (I have a spark gap tester to determine if my spark voltage is high enough but haven't used it yet) so I don't know if it's firing the plugs or if timing is correct, but there is no adjustment to the user on spark timing. It's only been down to 25F but averaging around 32 for weeks...I'll keep working and trying and testing everything until I find a definite answer. I have a new cap rotor plugs and wires on the way, all ACDelco (as my mechanic/son in law recommended)

[@AbrahamChan88]

@@bobsbarnworkshop Yes, as noted in this video when I did have start/driving issues years ago, slapping back in OEM AC Delco parts cured it all. When you use the spark gap, just note the colour - blue is great, orange is so-so and if it looks to be fading, those new spark wires and plugs are most definitely due ...unless, If we back up on the trace route, do you have electrical action on the distributor cap wire? Could it be your secondary ignition going bad (or dead) - it is a fault issue with these vehicles in humid conditions.

[@bobsbarnworkshop]

I put the timing light on the coil wire and seem to get sold pulses... as I said, no real measure of spark quality... Thanks for the input! @@AbrahamChan88

[@AbrahamChan88]

@@bobsbarnworkshop When the vehicle did run, was it rich/lean - timing issues that have worsened to the point that the spark delivery is completely not aligned? Bad chain? To check, I take off the cap, leave the rotor in place, use my camcorder to record the rotor movement, using a breaker bar (to make it easier) turn the engine over slowly before directions but before turning the engine, I shout "turning" so the camcorder picks it up. When reviewing the footage on the camcorder if the rotor does not start turning within a short while I.e. 3-5 degree turn of the engine, that is an indication of a bad chain ... even though it is suppose to "last the lifetime of the engine" hah ha.

[@artgonzalez6433]

Bro I can only say that we have to thank our Superior Being up there for people like you ! This is one of the best videos that i have seen on youtube ,and I'd really like to thank you for dedicating some of your time to instruct other people like me who lack the knowledge about this type of vehicles ( I just bought a 2001 Safari van a couple days ago ) . I'd like to to ask you ; do you have a video about changing the canister vent valve solenoid on your van ?? Also my motor vibrates when i press the gas pedal after i turn the motor on , do you have any ideas what it could be ? I mean the van runs and rides really smooth once i get it on the road or especially on the freeway , but its just when i first turn the van on . Your advice would be greatly appreciated !! And once again THANK YOU for all your great work !!

[@AbrahamChan88]

Sharing is caring right? =) Stay tuned, I will be posting a video on how to change the ignition coil. Try locating the EVAP between the distributor cap and the ignition coil (looking through the doghouse, on the passenger side) on your 2001; It differs per generation =( Does the motor only vibrate on cold start up when the fuel loop is open? Assuming it is not a consistent vibrate (as you describe) I guess we can rule out motor mounts, but do inspect them! Since you trying to locate the EVAP I can only assume the vibration is during cold start and the computer is trying to adjust "timing" to compensate. When I post my ignition coil replacement video you will be able to relate --- it was running rough and bad, more notable at idle with the bad ignition coil.

[@artgonzalez6433]

@@AbrahamChan88 thank you so much for your quick response ! By the way i think i'm gonna do the tune up on my van just like you showed us on your video , you made it look so easy and i just can't thank you enough ! Keep up the good work !!

[@AbrahamChan88]

@@artgonzalez6433 sub to my random channel :) that way you will get the new videos to come (maybe this week). It is really hard to replace this vehicle as it is so practical; sure it lacks in all the fancy features, might not be the most comfortable driver vehicle or best in mileage (debatable cause when load up it still gets 11-13L/100kms) compared to newer vehicles but nothing exist to replace it and fixing it is Darn cheaper than buying new something. I have used it for everything from off-roading crossing rivers, towing and hauling - you name it :)

[@MidasWelby]

what kind of lift was that?

[@AbrahamChan88]

The lift is custom - Front has 2" body blocks + keys (2"); Rear has larger shackles (2-3") and leaf kit (2-3"). Hope that helps!

[@mopic312]

good lord I wish I knew what state/city you live in.. I could use alot of help with my 2000 Astro Van. I want to work on my van so bad to save money and restore it to good working condition.

[@AbrahamChan88]

Well, I am north of where you are, in Canada :p please, ask any question, I be happy to help. That said, pop me a sub so if I keep popping up videos on this truck you will see them. I have had this vehicle since year 2003 / 20k kms and it is getting old but there really isn't anything on the market to replace it with. Sadly, our insurance here is just that, an insurance business so it cost me a little over $1700 a year in that department.

[@lyubomirpadalski4645]

Would this be same for the older v6 I have 91 safari ??

[@AbrahamChan88]

Similar but not the exactly same. I had a '86 (TBI) and your motor will either be similar to that one or the second variant available in '91. The concept for changing the plugs well the same, of course the exact parts will be different. I think I have a Chilton's manual somewhere for your motor; DM me for pictures of in need :)

[@ChaplainMike777]

Thank you!!

[@AbrahamChan88]

If you have any issues, drop a message :)

[@tarap5618]

On my Express the #6 is P.I.T.A. Always fights back.

[@AbrahamChan88]

Would it help to just lift the truck on jacks? ... and then remove the wheel? =(

[@pliem524]

What kind of charge controller and solar panel do you have

[@AbrahamChan88]

I have a few, generic brands, Coleman (amazing warranty service, check out my channel for a video on these) and Noma panels... Generic China made controllers and name brand controllers made in China heh.

[@pliem524]

Thanks

[@yogoi5312]

life saver

[@AbrahamChan88]

Did you get the job done? :)

[@yogoi5312]

@@AbrahamChan88 yes I was not thinking I started to remove everything without taking note. so I have my wire out of the package and i was oh snap so I needed to look it up on the sequence

[@AbrahamChan88]

@@yogoi5312 heh and as per the video, careful on the assumption of the lengths with the replacement wires! They could be different. I have footage from replacing the ignition coil module; I should get that online for folks :)

[@lorenzoalfonzo4944]

what's the name of the lift spacers

[@AbrahamChan88]

Non-branded... Custom. That said, they are just body blocks so you can use anything out there for trucks such as Timbren blocks.

[@charlesnorthup3665]

EVERYBODY! Just replace one plug and wire at a time..................................then transfer the wires from your old cap to the new cap

[@Bigjay88888]

What tools did u use?

[@AbrahamChan88]

Craftsman or Maxxium (Motormaster) tools; Spark plug socket, an extension to racket (3/8") ... a Philips (for the cap and rotor).

[@travisbaetz8173]

Where did you get those lift blocks from?

[@AbrahamChan88]

Your local parts supplier? They are just "body blocks" - you will need to get longer bolts. Best to unscrew all the bolts, take them with you to the store and buy the blocks plus new bolts together.

[@travisbaetz8173]

@@AbrahamChan88 are they easy to install?

[@AbrahamChan88]

@@travisbaetz8173 yes, very easy. Crawl under the truck, you will see three subframe bolts with the dampeners on each side. I suggest you put the rear axle on jack stands to help with leveling because one you get all six bolts out, you will jack on the body of the frame to "pull" or split it off the subframe which then you can remove the old dampeners and put in newer ones with the body blocks.

[@AbrahamChan88]

Oops forgot to mention I also used torsion keys for more lift in the front and for the rear, bigger shackles (3 holes, 1" separated lift increments) and add-a-leaf (3" lift).

[@scottmcintosh2988]

Mariene never seize also spray the inside of the distributor cap with WD 40 preventing moisture condensation

[@AbrahamChan88]

I believe it will be better to use the dielectric grease instead if you must coat it... I have not tried and therefore do not have any long term experiences with doing this.

[@scottmcintosh2988]

The dielectric grease around the plug wires is good idea the mariene never seize around the spark plug threads is better spraying WD 40 inside the distributor as WD is Water Disbursement prevents condensation it also works on old spark plug wires helps the spark inside the wires especially old cracked dried out ones untill you replace them . I lived 100 feet from the ocean lots of fog moisture like pea soup .

[@AbrahamChan88]

@@scottmcintosh2988 well, that is a good test case, living next to the ocean... Wet and salty, the worse lol thank you for sharing!

[@michaelsieber6601]

Anyone know how many hours this books in all data

[@AbrahamChan88]

I do not have the repair books, I remember something like 6 hours which is ridiculous. Why not call a GM Service Center near you to inquire? =)

[@michaelsieber6601]

phr1sk37 They don’t want to tell me

[@AbrahamChan88]

@@michaelsieber6601 well that is not proper service! Can you deduce the hours from parts and labour cost? How about a local "discount" store as an estimate?

[@michaelsieber6601]

phr1sk37 I bought all data it books 1.6

[@AbrahamChan88]

@@michaelsieber6601 that is closer to the truth. As noted, the 6 hours is ridiculous. With experience the console and doghouse comes off in about 6-8 minutes and the job begins to completion ~45-60 minutes for someone who knows what they are doing and not purposely rushing as per my video ^_^

[@luishuicholin3896]

abla más de lo que Acciona

[@AbrahamChan88]

Sorry, I do not understand; However, using Google translator and assuming your response is in Spanish, that is correct, I do _explain_ more than I show, showing is easy, however, often, things do not go right and thus through my explanations I hope to empower watchers with troubleshooting =)