fouling plugs in 88 80q

[River6822@aol.com]

You guys are right, HOW DO I KNOW IT'S OIL.

I don't-- I thought that the black greasy stuff was oil and that the yellow
stuff was unburned fuel. I am now guessing that the black greasy stuff is a
rich mixture and the yellow would be lean. ?? Help me out.

My oil level is nearly uneffected. I burn or drip less than 1/2 quart per 2000
miles. I have a small leak that I have not yet pin pointed. It leaves about a
6" diameter spot on the undershield every 2000 miles.

I have been keeping an eye on the tailpipe these past few mornings for smoke,
but it's been too cold and wet here in NY. There is some black soot, but not
much. Definitely not enough to stain the rear bumper. In any case, with that
small amount of oil loss, I can only hope for the best, and assume it's not
the rings or valve seals. I'd like to elliminate the other options first.

I did have a compression test done when I first got the car and the mech. said
it was good. I didn't get the Bentley until months later so I guess I'll have
it checked again and actually ask what the readings are.

I have also come across one other fact that may aid in diagnosis-- My gas
mileage is down about 8 miles to the gallon on this last fill up. Same gas
station and 89 octane. I'll report on mileage again near the end of the week,
but it looks like it's going down again this week.

Please don't give up on me, I truely need the help. Sorry for any annoying
ignorance.

http://members.aol.com/river6822