When searching for more power and performance for your vehicle, there is one performance upgrade that most people can actually do on their own and on the cheap. Off Road Xtreme wanted to highlight this simple and affordable option, so we reached out to Performance Distributors and got our hands on a set of SOS (Sultans Of Spark) ignition coils.

The vehicle to receive the performance ignition coils is a 2005 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner model. Powered by a proven 4.0 liter V6, this truck has accumulated over 247,000 miles and is still going strong. Equipped with 265/70/16×8 moderate all-terrain tires, this vehicle is the owner’s daily driver but also the “go to” for road trips. The Toyota is at home on the off-road trails and often chases in the Baja desert races.

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A Performance Upgrade That Works!

We chose the SOS coils performance upgrade because they are known to produce five percent more energy under load over the stock ignition coils by allowing for a more efficient burn of the fuel mixture. During the acceleration phase, and multiplying that by each cylinder, that equates to thirty or forty percent more energy per engine. An ignition coil performance upgrade results in quicker starting and smoother idle. The best part is when you “step on it” there is instant throttle response.

Performance Distributors has listed SOS (Sultans Of Spark) Part No. 58000 for the 2005 4.0 liter Tacoma application.  It should be noted that they have specific ignition coils for Toyota 4-Runner, Landcruiser, Sequoia, Tundra, FJ Cruiser, and multiple-year Tacomas. They are also available for a wide variety of other vehicle models as well.

These SOS coils are designed as direct replacements, mount directly in the OEM location, and no modifications are required. Picking up the components and feeling them out before the install revealed a high-quality product well constructed with premium materials. The thermoplastic housing and the silicone rubber boot are superior to the OEM component and will stand up to the engine heat stresses while providing excellent insulation. Inside, stainless steel springs help resist corrosion. 

In this article, we have a step-by-step installation to demonstrate how simple this upgrade can be Off Road Xtreme technical experts rate this install with one out of five wrenches and it can be done with simple hand tools.

Parts

Performance Distributors SOS (Sultans Of Spark) Part No. 58000

Installation Notes

Before you Begin: Determine if you plan to replace the spark plugs and have them on hand if needed. You may decide this is necessary upon inspection. It is always a good idea to prepare and organize your work area. When everything is ready, disconnect your negative battery cable.

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Remove engine cover by way of the single 10mm screw.

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Working on the driver side, you may opt to remove the intake bracket as this will allow more ample room to work. Some models may require that you remove fuel rails, power steering pump reservoir bracket, and/or starter solenoid bracket. You may need to clear the vacuum lines out of the way making more room.

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Disconnect coil wires via plastic push tab.

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Remove the coil retaining screw, (1) 10 mm bolt per coil, and then the ignition coils will be free to take out.

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At this point, if you have determined to replace or inspect the spark plugs, this would be the ideal time. Using a spark plug socket carefully loosen and remove. Inspect for excessive wear and corrosion.

Pro Tip

When replacing coils, it is advised to inspect and replace the spark plugs as needed.

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Prep spark plugs by checking the gap and calibrate if needed. SOS recommends gapping to .055”. This allows you to take advantage of the increased voltage and longer duration spark that the SOS Coils produce. Apply anti-seize lubricant to spark plugs threaded end. Insert spark plugs into place and hand tighten at first. With a spark plug socket, tighten till snug. Do not overtighten.

Prep new SOS coils with a liberal amount of the provided dielectric grease onto the plug end.

Insert SOS coils into place making sure to firmly cover and attach over spark plugs.

Reuse and put into place the original 10mm retaining screw and tighten it down to factory specs. Finally, reconnect coil wires.

Repeat the removal and replacement of the coils and spark plugs on the passenger side. You may opt to make additional room to work by removing airfilter intake. This will free up the area and help you gain access to the passenger side ignition coils.

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Inspect your work. Now you may reinstall everything that was removed in the reverse order as needed. Reconnect the negative battery cable and test drive vehicle looking and listening for potential misfires.

Warranty

Like many other vehicle enhancements, this ignition coil performance upgrade comes with a certain amount of risk. Performance Distributors offers an industry-standard warranty that covers defects, material, and workmanship. It should also be noted that these SOS Ignition coils may not be legal for road use in your state or locality.