Spark Plug Diagnosis

[kpnavarro]

Can someone explain why my spark plug looks like this, I have no idea when they were last changed because I have only owned the truck for a few months

 

[KidVermicious]

A higher resolution pic would help - is the white insulation chipped?

 

[Hyde802]

See if this helps:

NGK Spark Plugs USA

Or this one:

http://www.aa1car.com/library/cm1196.htm

 

[mikebontoft]

I cant see it very well and I dont have access to a CSI image enhancer but it appears normal. I think the electrode is worn down on one side so they could certainly use some replacement.

replace with denso or ngk... but im sure you already have plugs anyway

In other words... looks like normal combustion.

 

[kpnavarro]

Here is a better shot

 

[fourwd1]

All that white buildup can be from running to lean, if you have the wrong heat range plug, or it could be a build up of oil and/or fuel additives during combustion.

 

[kpnavarro]

Could not changing the plugs for 10+ years cause this

 

[KidVermicious]

Yeah, running for 10 years could definitely cause that. Sheer age is part of the problem, wearing the electrode down and screwing up your gap, which could]/i] be the cause of the buildup. If your mileage and emissions are good and you're not throwing any codes, just toss some new plugs in there and check them again in a month.

 

[mikebontoft]

ten years? yeah.

 

[bluewavecaptain]

Even newer cars say you can run 4 years or 25,000 miles. I still never agreed with that. I change my spark plugs every 1-2 years depending on the age and condition of the vehicle.

 

[KidVermicious]

And at a buck or two a pop. why not?

 

[mikebontoft]

I change my plugs and oil whenever I decide "ok its probably been long enough" last time i did that, I had 600 miles on my oil.

 

[KidVermicious]

I change my plugs and oil whenever I decide "ok its probably been long enough" last time i did that, I had 600 miles on my oil.

You know, I've been looking for a stock tip... tell me which brand of oil you buy? :lmao:

 

[mikebontoft]

oh sorry I normally just use the greatest stuff ever... havoline conventional. but I do use parts plus premium conventional sometimes. actually if you want 5 quarts with about 600 miles on it, you can have it. I want to switch to some high mileage to see if it will cover up my leaky rear main.

oh um. spark plugs. old age will do that.

 

[nevada]

its burning oil.
and, as stated was in use for too long.


and....1-2 years on plugs? thats nuts.
put in a good plug, and assuming the engine is sound, you should EASILY get 50k miles. most newer stuff specs at 100k on the plugs.

changing them early is just a waste, same as changing the oil early.
it also works the threads in the head. theres just no reason to change them that soon.

 

[4runnertank]

and....1-2 years on plugs?

Agreed. But sometimes they'll last you 1k and other times 50k. Just make sure you pull them out and inspect them like once a year for wear. Plugs may not go bad, but other engine issues like running to hot, lean, rich, or leaking components into the cylinder can cause premature wear.