Oil wet plugs

MI30189

MEMBER
1977 FORD E-SERIES VAN
5.8L
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
126,000 MILES

My van has been sitting for a while, but I always start it at least two times a week. I was having a problem wit the carburetor so I rebuilt it. I decided to do a basic tune up, change the oil, air filter, oil filter, new spark plug wires, and spark plugs. When I pulled the spark plugs I noticed that they were oil filled, not heavy, but wet. Could you tell me if it might be the valve seals, head gasket, or rings? So far all of you have been very helpful to me. The engine is a 351w. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I intend on either rebuilding this or putting in a crate engine at a later date, so I still need this one operational for a period of time.
Thank You.
Mark

5 Replies

HMAC300

MECHANIC
48,601 POSTS

Starting a vehicle and not driving it is not a good thing for it. Best thing to do here is to change spark plugs and drive it at least 10-15 miles the farther the better then look at plugs. Those vehicles had plastic valve seals so are more than likely broken and seal replacement would be in order but if you continue plugs will still do what you see now. They also used to like to go through valve guides so check that as well.

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Friday, May 20th, 2016 AT 12:08 PM

MI30189

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50 POSTS

Thank u for the info.I plan on doing what u say, I will change the plugs and drive it.I already have the valve seals and guides.I appreciate your time.I will get back to u if I need more help
Thanks
Mark

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Friday, May 20th, 2016 AT 4:49 PM

HMAC300

MECHANIC
48,601 POSTS

The guides will need to be installed by a pro because the heads have to come off and be drilled correctly to keep valve angle correct and usually a valve grind is done at same time. You also need a reamer and driver to install the guides. If you have that stuff then you are good but if not I think some auto parts can do it or an engine rebuilder.

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Saturday, May 21st, 2016 AT 7:23 AM

MI30189

MEMBER
50 POSTS

Thank you once again, I do have the tools that I need to do a full rebuild, so I will give it a shot. You will be the first one I will contact if I run into trouble.
Thank you
Mark

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Sunday, May 22nd, 2016 AT 5:53 AM