Sti Addict

I changed the plugs on a my jdm bug sti a few days ago, however the two plugs on the passenger side were quite oily, the two on the driver's side were perfect. Could this be a sign of impending problems? Also the engine seems to be quite wobbly on idle, could it be coilpacks or something more serious? Thanks guys

scooby_Paul

Rocker cover gasket leak would cause oil on the plugs

JohnD

iTrader: (5)

Rocker cover gasket failure would not cause the firing end of the plug to be oily as it's in the combustion chamber. I'm assuming the OP means the electrodes?
There could be a head gasket problem on that side or of course, broken piston rings - less likely considering that both plugs on that side are contaminated.
A compression test may confirm a problem on that bank.

JohnD

Sti Addict

Thanks for the replies guys, yes its the electrode side of the plugs that are oily, smelled quite strongly of petrol aswell compared to the other side, I will have it compression tested, hope it comes back good

Sti Addict

just to add I havent noticed any excessive smoke or anything like that which would be a dead giveaway that something is not right.

Car also had a leakdown test back in March, nothing showed up

JohnD

iTrader: (5)

It's possible that the last time you switched off, the fuel pulse had occured but the ignition, being off, didn't fire the mixture, leaving a wet plug?

JohnD

Sti Addict

Hopefully it is something as simple as that, but it is worrying in regards to the state of the plugs on different sides of the engine.

easy-does-it

Interested to know what you find as the culprit as i've got the same thing happening on my 92 EJ20T lump. Both plugs on the passengers side are oily and stink of petrol while the other two are fine and it sounds and runs like it's on three cylinders.
Ive just changed from individual coils to a wasted spark system and the spark looks fine..

Sti Addict

Hello mate, I think your instincts are correct, had a leak down test, cylinder 1 is leaking 40% 4 is at 25% other two at under 20%.