My caprice classic failed emissions, and the manager at the emissions place told me that changing the air filter, plugs and wires would help. So I bought the stuff and went to do the work. I also got some guaranteed to pass. The filter was easy to change. The plugs ... royal pain in the ass. On this motor, a 1992 5.0L, the distibutor is in the back of the engine, near the firewall, so it is a pain to get the wires off. Also, the plugs are completely out of sight and the ones on the passenger side have a bunch of hard lines in the way, making it a real pain to get to them. After taking an hour to change the 3 easiest plugs, I said, "screw it" and took it to a local gas station to have the rest replaced. I picked up the car yesterday ... $150 to replace the other 5 wires. At least it passed emissions this time.
That sucks...here's a little hint for next time though. I had a 305 in my Camaro and it was much easier to get it up on jackstands (put them up as high as possible) and get those back plugs. As far as the distributer, you just gotta wiggle your hand in there a deal with the pain. (I have small hands so it wasn't to bad for me) But at least you passed the next time
