Here's the precise firing order and spark plug sequence for the 2010 Chrysler Town & Country equipped with the 3.8L V6 engine:
Firing Order
The correct ignition firing order is: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6
This sequence indicates the order in which each cylinder receives a spark during the engine's combustion cycle.
Cylinder Location & Spark Plug Sequence
The engine has two cylinder banks:
- Bank 1 (Driver's Side / Left Bank): Contains cylinders 1, 3, 5. Cylinder 1 is closest to the front of the vehicle (radiator).
- Bank 2 (Passenger's Side / Right Bank): Contains cylinders 2, 4, 6. Cylinder 2 is closest to the front of the vehicle (radiator).
The physical spark plug sequence on the engine corresponds directly to this cylinder numbering.
Ignition System (Distributorless)
The 3.8L V6 uses a distributorless ignition system (DIS). Three coil packs are mounted on the intake manifold or valve covers.
- Each coil pack has two towers and fires two spark plugs simultaneously (Waste Spark system).
- The pairs fired together are: (1 & 4), (2 & 5), (3 & 6).
- Despite firing two plugs at once, the programmed firing order (1-2-3-4-5-6) must be followed when routing or checking spark plug wires.
Ensuring Correct Installation
- Work One Plug/Wire at a Time: Replace spark plugs or wires one cylinder at a time to prevent mixing up connections.
- Verify Cylinder Numbers: Double-check cylinder numbering before connecting new wires or plugs. Cylinder 1 is front-most on the driver's side (US driver).
- Secure Routing: Ensure spark plug wires are securely seated on both the coil pack terminals and the spark plugs, and routed away from hot surfaces.
Key Point
Using the correct firing order (1-2-3-4-5-6) and matching each spark plug to its designated cylinder position is essential for smooth engine operation, fuel efficiency, and preventing misfires.