Oil In Spark Plug Hole??

[billybimmer05]

Hey...

Was changing my plugs yesterday. Opened up #5, stuck in my ratchet, turned, and the plug in their had oil on it!
Where did this come from?
What does it mean?
How do I fix????

Replaced the plug and the car seems to run fine...

Bill

[///Matt]

If there isn't a lot, it's ok. I would be concerned if the plug was doused in it, or if it was fouled up and there were clear signs of oil burn off. The leak is probably caused by an older gasket that has a slow leak. It is normal for there to be a little oil around the plug, but not inside the cylinder.

Regards,

[billybimmer05]

Originally posted by ///Matt@May 2 2005, 09:06 PM
If there isn't a lot, it's ok. I would be concerned if the plug was doused in it, or if it was fouled up and there were clear signs of oil burn off. The leak is probably caused by an older gasket that has a slow leak. It is normal for there to be a little oil around the plug, but not inside the cylinder.

Regards,

[snapback]340260[/snapback]

Thanks Matt!
Guess that gasket needs to be changed. Is that something I can do easily?

[fredo328]

very easy and actually fun to do. You'll need a good torque wrench.
Pelican parts has a good DIY:
http://www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/techarticl...Valve-Cover.htm

[///Matt]

like Fredo said...it can be fun because you see the inside of the engine. Just be really careful (because i wasn't perfect) that you keep the area you are working in VERY clean. If anything gets into the casing you run the risk of doing some damage. Enjoy!