misfire code p0301

It’s a 2000 3.4L that started running rough, I checked the code and gave me p0301 so a misfire in the first cylinder. I’m the second owner so I figured the plugs needed to be replaced. After I replaced them the truck ran fine for at least two days then the same code came on and started idealing rough again. The last coil was stuck and hard to get out I think it’s cylinder 6 (the furthest back on the right) didn’t look great I’ll include a picture. But I’m only getting a code for the 1st. So I’m not sure what to do next.

Thanks in advance

 

confusion on this end also. You might want to do a compression test first to verify you have a mechanically sound motor. Having said that, I am not sure of your knowledge on the 3.4's ignition system so please dont be insulted with a basic explanation, it might help you with your diagnosis. From the front of the motor, the passenger side of the vehicle the cylinders are numbered 1,3,5. The 3.4 uses a ganged (wasted spark) spark plug firing system meaning that when the coil for #1 fires it also fires the plug for cylinder #4 even though #4 is not on the compression stroke. Yes that plug wire doesnt look the best and it just might be shorting out, but you arent getting a code for #6... Pull #1 plug and look at it very closely, especially the insulator. If you dont "see" anything take your fingernail and scratch the insulator and see if it catches on a crack... sometimes the plug box gets dropped and the insulator cracks and if it so new there isnt time for a carbon track to develop. swap that plug with the plug in the next cylinder and see if a P030X code follows the plug, if it does you have a bad plug, if the P0301 code returns then it is something with that cylinder... the coil is going bad, the wires are breaking down or even a flaky injector.
A spray bottle with water in it can be used to mist the plug wires to induce a short. a long screwdriver with a long jumper that is grounded and passing it over the wires might induce a short too. If the ignition system checks out you might have to swap the injector for #1 to see if the code follows the injector to its new cylinder... yep, pain in the rear.