How to Deal with Spark Plugs Soaked in Engine Oil?
2 Answers
The method to deal with spark plugs soaked in engine oil is: use paper to wipe off the oil on the spark plug, gently sand the electrodes a few times with fine sandpaper, or slightly burn the electrodes of the spark plug on the flame of a gas stove or alcohol lamp. The function of a car's spark plug is to discharge the pulsed high-voltage electricity generated by the high-voltage wire, breaking down the air between the two electrodes of the spark plug to ignite the gas in the cylinder. Methods for maintaining and servicing car spark plugs: 1. Clean the dust and impurities around the spark plug, usually by using compressed air or a fine soft tube to blow them away; 2. When removing the spark plug, ensure the engine is in a cold state and never disassemble or install the spark plug while the car engine is running; 3. After removing the spark plug, protect the installation port to prevent impurities or dust from entering the cylinder; 4. When removing the spark plug, use the correct tools, ensure the wrench fits properly, and operate it straight and correctly to avoid damaging the insulating ceramic body.
I've encountered the issue of spark plugs soaked in engine oil a few times, mainly due to aging car parts starting to wear out. For example, when the seals on the engine deteriorate or get damaged, engine oil can leak into the spark plug wells, soaking the spark plugs. This can cause the spark plugs to fail to ignite, leading to unstable engine operation or even a breakdown on the road. Once discovered, it's crucial to address it immediately: first, remove the spark plugs for a thorough inspection. If they're still usable, clean them thoroughly or replace them with new ones, but replacement is often necessary because the oil can corrode the electrodes. Then, locate the source of the oil leak. In most cases, replacing the valve cover gasket solves the problem, which isn't expensive—just over a hundred yuan. You can do it yourself, but without experience, mistakes are easy to make. It's essential to fix the issue completely; otherwise, it will recur, and prolonged exposure can damage the engine block. I recommend paying attention to the oil warning light and any unusual smells while driving, and regularly checking the condition of the spark plugs—inspecting them every 10,000 kilometers can prevent such headaches.
