Spark plug change - problem...

See the attached photos. I'm changing the plugs on my 2010 tacoma sport today and came across this... What's going on? Can't be good...

 

Tip (electrode) wet?

 

http://m.ebay.com/itm/Engine-Valve-...oyota-Tacoma-2-7L-L4-/111676642504?nav=SEARCH


There is a gasket that seats around the spark plug shafts to the valve cover. In the image its the one with the circular gaskets. That may be leaking oil into the tubes.

Different motor, but same idea

 

Looks like oil on the plug. Probably need a new valve cover gasket.

 

valve cover gasket leaking...since the electrode looks fine

 

no

 

Yeah I agree with @wilcam47

 

agree valve cover gasket.

 

I am sure that made you heart sink seeing them come out like that though that's never a good feeling.

 

At least it is a cheap and relatively quick fix. Much better than having to dig deeper into the engine.

 

yes, i wasn't very happy. i figured it was a gasket but not sure. it is what it is.

 

Relatively cheap part but some work to replace, particularly if driver's side.
Driver's side (#2): http://parts.villagetoyota.com/prod...DER-HEAD-COVER--NO2-L/1999833/11214AD010.html
Passenger side (#1): http://parts.villagetoyota.com/prod...CYLINDER-HEAD-COVER-L/1999798/11213AD010.html

 

I'm not sure if I'm going to do this one myself. I will need to look into it first.

 

^If you can replace plugs, you can replace the valve cover gaskets. Have a read at the FSM starting at step 8 on page EM-68. Passenger side is easier. Driver's side requires removing the intake manifold (aka "surge tank") so it's more work and requires you to buy the intake manifold gaskets as well.

 

it's on the passenger side

 

v.c. gasket

 

Every pent roof engine ever made leaked oil into the plug wells from old Chrysler hemi's to go fast Honda's. Frankly I wouldn't worry about it oil is not conductive.

 

Had this same thing happen to me today but on the drivers side (the plug that is the hardest to get to) on my V6 4L 2008 Prerunner. I was able to do the plugs, easy enough, but there is a great step by step walk through here on TacomaWorld for that. Havnt been able to find one for replacing the Valve Cover Gasket. Might have to have the Dealership do this one. Good luck! Keep me updated on what you did to get it fixed.