This should be easy...

[jlondino]

...but nooooo.

Thought I would change the spark plugs after my successful filler hose
replacement experience(only bled once). Plug nearest timing cover looked
new and came out easy but the other 3 would not budge and could very well
be original. I've been soaking them in PB blaster for a few days and bought
a huge breaker bar, they are now starting to move some.

I have two issues:

1. How do I remove the plug nearest the firewall?

2. As I understand things, the firing order is 1-3-4-2 starting at the timing cover.
my plug wires were connected to 4-3-2-1 and the engine ran. What's up with that?

Is it a bad sign if one of my first purchases is a parts car?

[MNspiderman]

On a fiat that number 4 is the number one. its kinda weird like that. but as far as the plugs go, make sure you use lots of lube and more important keep going in and out in very short increments, rather than reverse continuously. This is to hopefully make sure your not "eating" the aluminum threads right out of the block. Go slow, be patient. When reinstalling the new plugs eventually, make sure you use some sort of anti-seize compound. You can get that at the auto store too.

[Schnauzer]

MNSpiderman: Are you saying that the cylinders are numbered from the firewall forward 1-2-3-4 so 4 is at the front of the engine?

[kilrwail]

Plug number 1 is nearest the timing belt. To remove the number 4 plug, I use a 10" extension plus universal joint to get around the carb linkage. You may need a long pair of needlenose pliers to retrieve the plug or put the new one into position, if your plug socket doesn't grip the plug with a rubber collar.