Shocking Results: How to Clean Oil Out of Spark Plug Well and Boost Your Engine’s Performance

Engine misfires can be frustrating and leave you stranded on the side of the road. One common culprit behind misfires is oil leaking into the spark plug wells. This oily residue can foul the spark plugs, preventing them from igniting the fuel properly. If you’re experiencing a misfire and suspect oil in the spark plug well, don’t worry! This guide will walk you through the process of cleaning oil out of your spark plug well, helping you get back on the road.

Understanding the Problem: Why Oil in the Spark Plug Well?

Before we dive into cleaning, it’s essential to understand why oil might be accumulating in your spark plug wells. This knowledge helps you address the root cause and prevent future issues. Here are some common reasons:

• Valve Stem Seals: These seals prevent oil from leaking past the valve stems and into the combustion chamber. Worn or damaged valve stem seals can lead to oil seeping into the spark plug well.
• Valve Cover Gasket: The valve cover gasket seals the valve cover to the cylinder head, preventing oil from escaping. A damaged or worn gasket can allow oil to leak into the spark plug well.
• PCV Valve: The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve allows crankcase gases to be vented back into the intake manifold, preventing pressure buildup. A faulty PCV valve can lead to excessive blowby, pushing oil into the spark plug wells.
• Engine Blowby: Excessive blowby, caused by worn piston rings or other internal engine wear, can force oil past the piston rings and into the combustion chamber, ultimately leading to oil in the spark plug well.

Essential Tools and Supplies

Before you start cleaning, gather the necessary tools and supplies:

• Socket Set: You’ll need a socket that fits your spark plugs.
• Torque Wrench: This ensures you tighten the spark plugs to the correct specification.
• Spark Plug Gap Tool: Used to check and adjust the gap of your spark plugs.
• Shop Towels: For cleaning up spills and wiping down parts.
• Brake Cleaner: For cleaning the spark plug wells and spark plugs.
• New Spark Plugs: It’s a good idea to replace your spark plugs while you’re cleaning the wells.
• Gloves: To protect your hands from grease and dirt.
• Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes from debris.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Oil Out of Spark Plug Wells

Now, let’s get down to the cleaning process:

1. Disconnect the Battery: Always start by disconnecting the negative terminal of your car battery to prevent electrical shocks.
2. Locate the Spark Plugs: Identify the spark plugs on your engine. They are typically located on the top of the engine, near the valve cover.
3. Remove the Spark Plugs: Use the socket and wrench to carefully remove the spark plugs.
4. Clean the Spark Plug Wells: Use shop towels and brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the oil and debris from the spark plug wells. Be sure to remove any loose particles or carbon buildup.
5. Clean the Spark Plugs: Clean the spark plugs with brake cleaner and a wire brush. Inspect the spark plugs for wear or damage. If they are worn or damaged, replace them.
6. Gap the New Spark Plugs: If you are installing new spark plugs, use the spark plug gap tool to ensure they are gapped correctly. Refer to your owner’s manual for the proper gap specification.
7. Install the Spark Plugs: Carefully thread the new or cleaned spark plugs back into the wells. Tighten them to the specified torque using the torque wrench.
8. Reconnect the Battery: Reconnect the negative terminal of your battery.
9. Start the Engine: Start the engine and listen for any misfires. If the misfire persists, you may need to address the underlying issue causing the oil leak.

Preventing Future Oil Leaks

Once you’ve cleaned the spark plug wells, it’s important to address the root cause of the oil leak to prevent it from happening again. Here are some steps you can take:

• Inspect and Replace Valve Stem Seals: If you suspect worn valve stem seals, have them inspected and replaced by a qualified mechanic.
• Replace the Valve Cover Gasket: If the valve cover gasket is leaking, replace it.
• Inspect and Replace the PCV Valve: Inspect the PCV valve for proper operation. If it’s clogged or damaged, replace it.
• Consider Engine Repair: If excessive blowby is causing the oil leak, you may need to consider engine repair.

Beyond Cleaning: Addressing the Root Cause

Remember, cleaning the spark plug wells is only a temporary fix. To truly resolve the issue, you must identify and address the underlying cause of the oil leak. If you’re not comfortable performing these repairs yourself, consult a qualified mechanic for professional assistance.

Time to Hit the Road Again!

By following these steps, you can effectively clean oil out of your spark plug wells and restore your engine’s performance. However, always remember that addressing the root cause of the oil leak is crucial to prevent future issues. Keep your engine running smoothly and enjoy your journeys!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I clean my spark plug wells?

A: While it’s not a routine maintenance task, you should clean your spark plug wells if you notice oil buildup or if you’re experiencing engine misfires.

Q: Can I use a vacuum cleaner to remove oil from the spark plug wells?

A: While tempting, it’s not recommended. Using a vacuum cleaner could damage the spark plug wells or create a fire hazard.

Q: What if cleaning the spark plug wells doesn‘t fix the misfire?

A: If cleaning the spark plug wells doesn‘t resolve the misfire, it’s likely that the underlying cause of the oil leak needs to be addressed. Consult a mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.

Q: Can I use gasoline to clean the spark plug wells?

A: Absolutely not! Gasoline is extremely flammable and should never be used near an engine or spark plugs. Use brake cleaner or a dedicated engine degreaser for cleaning.