Water in the spark plug well is a common problem that can link to serious engine performance issues.
If you have water in this part, it’s important to address the issue quickly to prevent further damage to your engine.
This guide will explore the causes of water in spark plug wells and provide tips for troubleshooting and fixing the problem.
So, if this is what you need to investigate, stay with us and keep scrolling down for more!
Why Is There Water In The Spark Plug Well?
Water in the spark plug well can stem from various issues. Some of the most common causes include a head gasket leak, a cylinder leak or broken, and a damaged engine block.
Coolant can leak into the spark plug well and mix with the engine oil if a head gasket leak, engine block, cylinder leak, or cylinder head is broken.
Other potential culprits behind the rain water in spark plugs include a damaged valve cover gasket, a clogged drain hole, or a cracked spark plug tube.
Furthermore, driving through deep water or heavy rain can also lead rain water to enter the spark plug well.
In difficult situations, the oil may even go inside the part and leave an oil-fouled spark plug, making them dysfunctional and increasing the possibility of an engine fire.
Whatever it is, identifying the underlying water in spark plug well symptoms is essential to prevent further engine malfunctions and to ensure that the vehicle is safe to drive.
Step on How To Fix Wet Spark Plugs
Rain water getting into the spark plug might be problematic. If you don’t fix the issue immediately, you can have difficulties starting the automobile.
We’ll explain to you how to dry a spark plug. Look it up.
Required Tools
You’ll need a few key items to fix the water clog issue:
- Anti-seize compound
- Spark plug socket
- Hairdryer
- Safety gloves
- Big ratchet extension
- A piece of cloth/rag
- Penetrating oil
- Large screwdriver
- Small brush
- Wire brush
- Bicycle air pump
Step To Fix
Step 1: Identify the Affected Spark Plug Well
Before anything else, you need to identify which spark plug well has an external leak and is affected by water.
You can do the job by visually checking the spark plug well and looking for any signs of moisture. Remember to wear gloves for your own safety.
Step 2: Open the Hood And Detach the Wire
As the engine is cooling, open the hood. It might take a machine up to half an hour to cool down after starting.
Water will be present around the spark plug’s well. In any case, cut the core plugs, then take hold of the rope with your hand and the boot.
The spark plug wire and core plugs should be removed from the spark plug by repeatedly turning the starter.
Step 3: Remove the Water
How to get water out of spark plug well? After removing the spark plug boot, use a paper towel or a clean rag to wipe off any visible water leak and water got in spark plug hole.
You may also use an air compressor to blow out any remaining fluid.
Step 4: Get rid of extra dirt and Grease Around Spark Plug
Your wires will gather various debris over time, including carbon deposits, dirt, and grease around the spark plug.
Blow cold air around the spark plug to clear it of these impurities. You may use a hair dryer with a cold air setting or a regular bicycle air pump.
Otherwise, use a tiny wire brush with a long handle to sweep into the well. Any sticky debris surrounding it will be helped to move by doing this.
Step 5: Remove and clean the spark plugs
You can use the big ratchet extension and spark plug socket to do the stuff easier.
After that, use a wire brush to clean the core and other engine compartments. Then, spray the threads with a light coating of anti-shrink chemicals.
The plug will be simpler to take out the second time it needs to be changed as a consequence.
Before using a shop rag, thoroughly clean the spark plugs to get rid of any salt & dirt that you were unable to remove. Make sure the seeds don’t end up in the combustion chamber.
Step 6: Use Silicone Lube
Apply a small amount of penetrating silicone lube to the cylinder head’s well threads. This will make spark plug reassembly easier and help eliminate any leftover moisture.
But remember to use top-notch silicon lube to ensure your vehicle can perform in the best condition.
Step 7: Inspect the Spark Plug
Before re-installing the spark plug boot, examine the spark plug for any signs of broken or corrosion on ignition system components.
If the spark plug doesn’t come out or is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Step 8: Re-install the Spark Plug Boot
Once you’ve removed all the water from the well and checked the spark plug, carefully re-install the spark plug and coil boot. Make certain it’s properly seated and securely fastened.
Step 9: Test the Engine
Finally, start the engine and check for any signs of a misfire issue, corrosion, or rough running. If the engine runs smoothly, you’ve successfully removed the water from the spark plug well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Water In Spark Plug Well Create Misfire?
Yes, water in a spark plug well can create a misfire. The water can cause a short circuit in the electrical system, preventing the spark plug from firing properly.
Moreover, the problem can result in rough idling, reduced power, and increased emissions.
Additionally, when the water is not eliminated promptly, it can lead to corrosion on the ignition system or other electrical components.
Therefore, it is important to address any water in the spark plug well as soon as possible to prevent potential damage to the engine and ensure proper performance.
Should Outboard Spark Plugs Be Wet?
No, outboard spark plugs should not be wet. Wet spark plugs in an outboard engine can indicate a problem with the engine’s cooling or fuel system.
If the spark plugs are constantly wet, your car can end up with misfires, poor performance, and potentially serious engine damage.
So, it is necessary to diagnose and fix the issue immediately to avoid further problems with the engine.
What Happens If Oil Contaminates The Spark Plug Well?
If oil contaminates the spark plug well, it can cause the spark plugs to malfunction. The oil can cover the spark plug’s electrodes, preventing the spark from igniting the fuel in the engine.
As a result, the engine may misfire, followed by a decrease in power, acceleration, and fuel economy. The engine can also emit black smoke from the exhaust due to the unburned fuel.
In the long run, oil in the spark plug well can trigger problems with other engine components, such as the oxygen sensors, catalytic converter, and exhaust system, leading to expensive repairs.
The Bottom Line
Water in spark plug wells is never a good thing, but with the right tools and some troubleshooting know-how, you can locate and fix the problem before it causes serious engine malfunctions.
By following the guidelines, you can easily get your engine running smoothly and efficiently once again.
Remember, if you’re ever in doubt about fixing a problem with your car, it’s always better to consult a qualified mechanic or technician to help you get back on the road safely.