Have you ever asked yourself what causes oil on spark plugs in a vehicle? If you have, then this guide will detail all you need to know about that. The ignition system has various components that work together to initiate combustion in the engine. Any faults or irregularities in the spark plug could cause problems in the ignition system. For a spark plug to function effectively, it has to be in a conducive environment.
The engine has three vital liquids, oil, water, and fuel, and such liquids should not mix. If they end up mixing, your truck’s engine will likely break down or experience technical problems.
What Causes Oil On Spark Plugs
Oil is an important component of your engine. It lubricates and helps the moving parts run smoothly. When you see oil on spark plugs, it indicates oil in the combustion chamber, which might not be the best indication for your truck. Here are some of the common causes of oil on the spark plug.
Leakages on the Valve Gasket
The engine has a valve cover that fills the wells, and the spark plug has O-rings around its holes. These holes can be external or integrated with the valve gasket. Heat destroys the valve gasket, if this happens, the oil will leak into the spark plug holes.
When your truck fails to start, check the condition of the spark plug. If you find the whole of it has oil, consider replacing the valve cover gasket and the O-rings around your spark plug.
Faulty Crankcase Ventilation
The oil at the tip of your spark plug indicates that it is coming from the combustion chamber. The existence of oil in the combustion chamber should worry you because it is a bad sign. When you have faulty crankcase ventilation, the oil will find its way into the combustion chamber and the tip of your spark plug.
The blockage on the crankcase ventilation creates a lot of pressure, leading to oil being forced into the combustion chamber.
Faulty Turbocharger
You will observe oil on your spark plug when your turbocharger is faulty. If oil leaks from the turbo inlet compressor sealing, it will pass through the combustion chamber to the spark plug. If such happens to your truck, check the crankcase ventilation. Sometimes the intercooler and intake pipes can be filled with oil, damaging your turbocharger.
Damaged Valve Seals
The valves regulate the flow of air and fuel into the combustion chamber and allow the exhaust gases out of the combustion chamber. The valves close after adequate air and fuel have entered the chamber for all the activities to occur in the combustion chamber. The outlet valve will open to eliminate the exhaust gases from the combustion chamber.
When the valves are faulty, the oil will quickly get into the combustion chamber. Once the oil is in the combustion chamber, it will quickly find its way into the spark plug.
Damaged Pistons
You are likely to notice oil on spark plugs when the pistons are faulty. The high speed at which the pistons operates exposes them to tear and wear.
Conclusion
The presence of oil on spark plugs should not be treated lightly because it will not enable your spark plugs to initiate combustion and the starting of the engine. Knowing the common causes of oil in the spark plug will aid you in checking specific engine parts to determine the cause.