Have never done any repair or service to a car before today, but I felt like I had enough confidence to try my 60k service with all the write-ups by Loren on Renn-tech, the service manual, and the threads here on 6-speed. I also had some help from a handy friend. It took 12 hours, but I managed to change out the spark plugs (gapped, 0.8mm), the ignition coils (the old ones were not cracked but $280 was fine so I don't have to go back in there!), air filter, oil change (engine, sump, turbos), filter, and serpentine belt!

The fuel filter appears to be too much of a PITA so I will drive to my local independent guy and just ask him to install it. $100 of labor is worth saving the headache. I will still have avoided spending a LOT of money on a 60k service!

I had 3 problems but I don't think they amount to much. First, I was not prepared for sheer volume of oil out of the sump (and the consequent Exxon episode on my garage floor). Next time I will invest in a big pan with DEEP walls. Second, I wound up with 2 body style screws left over. Probably from a heat shield or something. Can't figure out where I missed them . Finally, I only put 7 quarts in the engine and it wasn't enough. I warmed up the car and tried to drive and it shut itself off and said "Check engine oil." Added 2 more quarts and it's between the markers now.

All appears to be fine. It sure is tight in there with the coils and plugs, and one needs a uber long extension for the plug bolt. But it's doable!

I had fun and I feel like I earned some stripes today!