Re: filth around plugs...

[Ssgacc@aol.com]

In a message dated 99-03-05 11:01:28 EST, you write:

<< My $0.02.  Don't think petrol would yield this filth.  It evaporates
 to readily.  My $0.02 is on oil creeping past the threads/sealing gasket
 and bad valve stem seals as the predominant source of the oil.
 
 Mark Pollan, '86 5KCSTQ 280K Miles:)
  >>
I'll go with Mark's analysis.  On my 200tq with 160k miles I couldn't keep
that area clean.  Within 1 week after washing the engine that oil filth was
back.  When I renewed the cylinder head I replaced the valve guides and stem
seals.  Now that area stays dry and clean.  Also the spark plugs themselves
remain much whiter much longer.  The old stem seals were definitely toast.
The sludge is partially cooked oil with some petrol residue, and the grit is
normally thrown up while driving.  It just has something tacky to cling to
here.  Without the oil filth the few grits that accumulate in this pocket
remain dry and are easily blown out prior to removing the plugs.  IMHO.

Jim Accordino