[Supras] So, now that I'm getting through again (Was...Changing plugs 7M-GE)

[Mike Long]

On 1/5/07, Bob Schultz <bob_schultz at bellsouth.net> wrote:
> I wouldn't let all of the oil run into the cylinders for two reasons...
>
> You have some crud in the spark plug well and it could damage the cylinder
> walls or worse.
>
> Beyond that and this maybe a long shot but how big is the combustion
> chamber?  If enough oil gets into it the engine could hydro lock.
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: supras-bounces at supras.com [mailto:supras-bounces at supras.com] On Behalf
> Of supraman88
>
> Do I *NEED* to remove the oil, or can I just let it run into the
> cylinders? I am also going to replace the Valve Cover Gaskets (I am
> assuming this is the reason for the oil in the first place, and at least
> the one on the passenger's side is leaking badly). Anything I need to
> know?
>

I just finished cleaning up my valley after this problem, although I
must say, I'm a NEWB (big emphasis here because of the way I handled
it versus what Bob wrote above) when it comes to whether or not to
allow the oil to drain into the cylinders.  The front two and rear two
plug valleys were filled while the center two remained dry.

I pulled all of the oil soaked plugs and allowed the oil to drain into
the cylinders, then shoved (I didn't take off the valley cover) shop
towels in the valleys to soak up the remaining oil and crud.
Afterwards, I replaced all of the plugs (I'm thinking the previous
owner never did since they were burnt and well pitted, it's a wonder
this engine still works after everything I've observed about it since
I purchased the car from the previous owner).

As for redoing the valve covers, I followed this how-to:

http://cjsupra.kendra.com/Hexupgr.html

which solves the problem with the fasteners coming loose over time.
No leaks since then!

Cheers,
Mike -- 87T