This is on the '88 Camaro in the sig...

I got to all of the other plugs with no problems whatsoever, but the #3 plug has the dipstick tube in the way. There's a nut holding the tube in, but I'm afraid to move the tube--seems like an oil leak waiting to happen.

Anyone have any tricks for getting at this one, or am I safe to unbolt the dipstick tube?

Also, I noticed that most of my plugs came out with one of the contacts solid white (the contact that goes to ground--not the one that hooks up to the plug wires). What does that indicate?

Thanks

 

I would gently bend the tube out of the way to get past it, then bend it back when you are done.

Solid white on the plugs usually signifies that they are getting too hot. Is your timing correct? Running lean? Correct heat range plugs? Make sure those all check out OK.

 

#3... dipstick tube? I think you've got the cylinders wrong; I think you're talking about the #4 cylinder.

Correct numbering is:

FIREWALL
5...6
3..4
1..2
FRONT BUMPER

It's opposite of v8's; v8's have the #1 cyl as the front driver's side.

I get to the #3 plug no problems with a 7" extension, ratchet, and socket. We might have different dipsticks..? Have you tried using a universal (swivel) socket? Also, if you notice, at the end of your spark plug socket, there are flats meant to take a wrench. You don't need to use a ratchet & extension with the spark plug socket. If there's no room, try using a wrench directly on the spark plug socket. The plugs shouldn't be in there with much torque anyway.