Oil on plug 1

I just purchased an 88 4 door (http://www.civicforums.com/forums/#) civic with 134k.

But my question is. I was doing a tune up on it yesterday(new plugs) and found that my plug in cyl 1 was about covered in oil. it was even up some of the threads.

Anyone else have this problem? is it just the piston ring? Car (http://www.civicforums.com/forums/#) still runs great. a little sluggish when cold but once warmed runs real strong.

Thanks!

1) You could do a compression test, and compare with other cylinders.
2) Try a new PCV valve.
3) Your Engine is probably ready for a in the car valve stem seal replacement.

How much oil is being used in between oil changes?

Was the oil on the lower part of the plug that sparks, or on the top where the plug wire connects?

He says "even up the threads" so I'm going to assume its on the bottom side.

Do a compression test on it, and if that cylinder is lower than the others, do a leak down test, it will tell you where your problem is at.

1) You could do a compression test, and compare with other cylinders.
2) Try a new PCV valve.
3) Your Engine is probably ready for a in the car valve stem seal replacement.

How much oil is being used in between oil changes?


I think I am going to try the valve cover gasket and plug gaskets first. Not sure how much oil is being lost. I just purchased the car on tuesday and did an oil change and swapped the plugs on wednesday. Thanks for the info. If the gaskets and seals dont get it then I will get a compression test done.

Thanks!

Sounds like a good place to start. A lot of these motors haven't had those seals replaced, so it's common to see oil on the top of the plug. Let us know know if you need anything else.