What causes the spark plug wells to fill with water/ coolant ?

2004 LINCOLN AVIATOR
130,000 MILES
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KCROB
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Had to replace #7 coil. In the process , noticed a couple of the spark plug wells were filled with oil. Cleaned the wells, replaced the valve cover gaskets, grommets, and spark plug gaskets. Granted it up and still had a misfire. Checked the coils again, but this time, we had water/coolant in the wells on the drivers/left side only. What causes this problem ?
Mar 29, 2012 at 12:27 AM
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DRCRANKNWRENCH
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It is more than likely a head gasket leak or if you are lucky an intake manifold leak.
To test for head gasket leak get a coolant pressure system test done. Also, change your oil and look for milky substance in oil, thatis coolant. If the test fails or there is coolant ain the oil, you need to replace the head gasket. Ohterwise you may get away with an intake manifold gasket.
Mar 29, 2012 at 12:38 AM
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KCROB
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Thanks Dr Crank for the quick response. We checked the oil and its good. There no water leak before we changed out the valve cover gaskets. There was oil in both sides of the spark plug wells, now only on one side. There is a suction/air hose that goes in the top of the valve cover. Is there a possibility that water is coming in from there, since water is concentated in the rear e spark plug wells ?
Mar 29, 2012 at 1:31 AM
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DRCRANKNWRENCH
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No that is an exaust gas or PCV valve vacuum lead.
You probably pinched the gasket when putting it on. You should use silicone sealant, just a little, on them to assure a seal and that they stay in place.
Mar 29, 2012 at 6:58 AM
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