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BIG PROBLEM when changing spark plugs

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Old Jan 2, 2003 | 10:34 PM
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BIG PROBLEM when changing spark plugs

Hi all...

Currently I'm changing the spark plugs on our 96 Max GXE auto. Everything was going as planned, and easier than expected, until I noticed that there was OIL on the coil packs when I pulled it out. The oil was basically dripping a little bit and I had to get a paper towel to wipe it up. I noticed most of the oil was dripping from the long, stick-like section of the coil pack. This coil was also the hardest to reach, under the EVAP canister valve.

I am very disappointed in this, and very worried at the same time. This particular Maxima has 96k miles and we bought it while it had 83k. As my father and I maintain the car when the time comes, we find out more and more problems. And not to mention...FREAKIN Autolite plugs were used in the car.

Could anyone help me and tell me what to do? It would be nice to just clean the coil pack up, install the spark plugs and think everything is fine but I know it isn't. ANy help would be greatly appreciated, as I am still in the process of changing the plugs. Thanks!
Old Jan 2, 2003 | 10:41 PM
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http://forums.maxima.org/showthread....and+spark+plug

http://forums.maxima.org/showthread....and+spark+plug

Old Jan 2, 2003 | 11:22 PM
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thanks...I guess I didn't use the right terms when searching.

Umm...even more bad news:

Oil is bascially about 3 inches HIGH in tubing where the spark plug and coil pack goes in. I found out when I decided to remove the spark plug. I couldn't...it seems like its seized on; so...I removed my extended socket and it was dripping with oil. This is not good...

If anyone else can help while I read these thread, I would appreciated it. Thanks.
Old Jan 2, 2003 | 11:24 PM
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Originally posted by Jamsan
some org member had his right rear sub merged in oil...even his coil pack was drenched in oil...it was a leaky head gasket....the cylinders are

1 2 3

4 5 6
that one is it...#3.
Old Jan 2, 2003 | 11:28 PM
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Sorry for posting again, but for anyone who experiences the "put put" as mentioned below:

Originally posted by cocolopez
hey fellas, just look for some advice here. when i went to change my spark plugs, the boot was full of oil! it had leaked down into the plug and the damn plug was full of oil. there was oil everywhere, like the damn exxon crashed into it!

anyway, its only on i believe 2 holes, 2 of the back ones. i cleaned it up the best i could and threw them back in. the car was running better with the plugs, but anyhow, i dont know how the car was firing with all that damn oil. every once in a while, while im in idle, the car will "putt putt putt" a little bit.

any suggestions?

its a 95 maxima se btw
it is most likely because of the problem that I have. This sucks.

Also,

Originally posted by BBaker025
get some of that silicon gasket or whatever its called. You just squeeze it on there and put the VC back on and problem solved.
I wish this was the answer, but if doesn't fix the problem completely, I guess I'm going to have to get a new valve cover gasket.
Old Jan 2, 2003 | 11:32 PM
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I didn't read the provided links but I would assume() that the valve cover gasket and or the gasket(or o-ring)that seals the plug hole is leaking. Since you mention it's #3, it looks like you have to remove the upper intake manifold to access the rear valve cover. I would maybe dig around for Ian's or someones MEVI instructions as they would include a how to for removing the intake manifold.
Old Jan 2, 2003 | 11:44 PM
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Originally posted by Jeff92se
I didn't read the provided links but I would assume() that the valve cover gasket and or the gasket(or o-ring)that seals the plug hole is leaking. Since you mention it's #3, it looks like you have to remove the upper intake manifold to access the rear valve cover. I would maybe dig around for Ian's or someones MEVI instructions as they would include a how to for removing the intake manifold.
I don't know if I should tackle this just now. I would, for the challenge, but I'm really stressed for time. I'm supposed to go back to my college apartment tomorrow but it's not this car that I'm taking. I'm taking the 5-speed, which is in tip-top condition. Should I just leave this job to a Nissan-specialized independent mechanic?

I already installed 3 new NGKs in the fronts. Would it be a problem to leave them in there? or should I remove them and put the old ones back so I can drive the car a shop?

thanks everyone.
Old Jan 2, 2003 | 11:59 PM
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dam i had this same problem with my old max....good luck...i never knew how to fix the problem...
Old Jan 3, 2003 | 12:01 AM
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Well if it was a small leak, it wouldn't be that bad but I'm a little concerned w/ the amount you are talking about. You could probably just leave the new ones in the front. I really don't think this is a "nissan" dealer job. About any mechanic could do this job. BUT! Not any mechanic is willing to the job WELL. Do you know of anyone that's experienced? Like a fellow .orger? Or at least someone who specializes in imports.
Old Jan 3, 2003 | 12:08 AM
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Originally posted by Jeff92se
Well if it was a small leak, it wouldn't be that bad but I'm a little concerned w/ the amount you are talking about. You could probably just leave the new ones in the front. I really don't think this is a "nissan" dealer job. About any mechanic could do this job. BUT! Not any mechanic is willing to the job WELL. Do you know of anyone that's experienced? Like a fellow .orger? Or at least someone who specializes in imports.
Turbo95Max! He lives 35 minutes away.

I dunno if he would want to get his hands messy though.

edit: I got an appointment with him. I would try it myself but don't have the time. Thanks for all of your help, Cyrus and Jeff.
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