First question, I have an 88 IROC 350 TPI. Do I have cast iron heads? If so I had the aluminum head plugs in there which were in for about 5 months. The plugs I took out came out and looked like it was running lean, the plugs seemed kinda white-like. Would having the aluminum head plugs in there cause any real bad perminent damage?? I made the mistake of having some shop put the plugs in for me Secondly, the plug that came out of the last cylinder toward the firewall of the passenger side was sooo messed up! It was badly fouled there was like gunk between the electrode, definately rendering the plug useless while it was in there... so another What is your take on this? Whats the deal with that cylinder? THanks in advance as always!

- Tom

 

I figured out that its carbon in one of my plugs built up between the electrode. Could someone tell me why its there and what I gotta do about it, if anything? Thanks.

- Tom

 

My best description would be that it looks like theres mud between the electrode.

 

I'm not that famaliar with the 88, but I'll try and help. Normally iron heads are painted when install and aluminum is left bare. You can check with a good magnet. There may be no problem with the engine, only a faulty plug. The gum is only build up due to the plug either not firing or firing very weak. Put in a new set and give-it-a-go.

 

I responded to this like two hours ago, I guess I've angered the internet gods.

If your engine is stock, you've got iron heads. You've got the wrong plugs, which could cause running problems, but hopefully nothing permanent. As for the crap on the plug.. could be oil leaking into the cylinder or something. Also like said above bad spark. Make sure the wires are good, get the right plugs in there and check it again later.

 

thank you so much. one more question. How long should I wait to check the plugs again, a couple days? Thanks

 

carbon quit babyin it run it hard once in a while naaa ya it is pbly a dead plug throw a new set in and fire her up