Spark plug diagnostics...are my rings shot?

LLuke@bmwe30.net · #1 (**permalink**) 02-18-2002, 10:08 AM

Drew and I pulled my spark plugs yesterday to attempt a compression test only to find the compression tool was not long enough to get into the spark plug hole.

Luckily we realised this after we had removed just one plug.

Attached are a few pics of that plug...what do you think? The tip was burned (which is normal) but the threads look like they have oil on them.

What's the word?

LLuke@bmwe30.net · #2 (**permalink**) 02-18-2002, 10:10 AM

LLuke@bmwe30.net · #3 (**permalink**) 02-18-2002, 10:19 AM

EVOIIIM3 · #4 (**permalink**) 02-18-2002, 10:22 AM

They don't look all that great. i think you are running a little rich!

Now the oil could be from the vavle cover leaking.

stilontrak · #5 (**permalink**) 02-19-2002, 06:33 PM

they kinda look like they're starting to get carbon fouled but dont take my word for it, i cant tell since its only black in around the edge, they do look worn out nonetheless. the oil would come from the valve cover leaking if it were nearer the center of the plug, its not a good sign if its around the spark element. look into it an a haynes or a bently repair manual, that should give you the best idea what that plug is telling you before going to your mechanic.

there's a bunch of things that plugs warn you of...