General spark plug question

[jcm]

I decided to replace my plugs myself after the stealership quoted me $120. Followed the instructions from another post (thanks josh) and didn't have any issues replacing. However, I have a question regarding the appearance of the old plugs. I have a V6 w/ 33K. I had 3 Densos and 3 NGKs. All plugs had turned a dark brown at the base of the insulator. Almost looked burnt. Densos were worse than NGKs. I compared my plugs to the ones in josh's post and none of his have this discoloring. So my question is, is this normal? I've done some towing but I always moderate my speed. Any insight would be appreciated.

 

[NViejeP]

Sorry to change the subject. But how was the spark plug change? Was it difficult? Would a person with VERY little car maintenance experience be able to do it?

Thanks

 

[jcm]

Sorry to change the subject. But how was the spark plug change? Was it difficult? Would a person with VERY little car maintenance experience be able to do it?

Thanks

I have no car maintenance experience either but I think I have some mechanical aptitude. Check out the post by "the josh" for pics and description. I got the tools mentioned in his post as well as a torque wrench, anti-sieze grease and dielectric grease. Cost me $60 but it's still half what the stealership charges and now I can do it myself. I also researched the proper way to change plugs, e.g. avoid cross threading, etc. The only thing I had difficulty w/ was separating the wire connectors from the coil on plug. Had to use a screwdriver to depress the clip far enough to get them apart. After that it's just a matter of changing plugs and putting everything back together.

So back to my original question...

 

[BROOKLYN]

u might of used the wrong plugs
from the dealership the part# 90919-01235
there about $4 each

 

[jcm]

u might of used the wrong plugs
from the dealership the part# 90919-01235
there about $4 each

The plugs in question are the original plugs that came with the vehicle. I just recently replaced with the same Denso plugs. I confirmed that the new plug p/n matched the 3 Denso's I removed. Plug in pic is one of the originals. Anyone out there have have experience reading plugs? Is it unusual or am I just being paraniod. I'm curious to learn...

 

[jharris2]

The plugs in question are the original plugs that came with the vehicle. I just recently replaced with the same Denso plugs. I confirmed that the new plug p/n matched the 3 Denso's I removed. Plug in pic is one of the originals. Anyone out there have have experience reading plugs? Is it unusual or am I just being paraniod. I'm curious to learn...

I don't recall ever pulling any plugs from an engine with that sort of marking. Makes me curious, too.

 

[Hank]

Mine did not look like that at all. I'll post a pic later when I get home from work.

 

[Hank]

A little late, but nonetheless. Here's the pic

 

[jcm]

Thanks for the reply. I was told by someone on another thread that the discoloration is normal and is cause by oil vapors. He said he sees it all the time. I do a lot of towing so I'm assuming that is why mine have the discoloration and yours don't.