I had two misfiring spark plugs on my old 223. The plugs, relatively new Champion plugs, were oil fouled. I put in two Autolite 216 plugs, but I fully expect that they will go bad, too.

I was hoping that the Autolites would be extended tip types, so that the oil would burn off the tips, but no dice. I'm hoping that someone can help me figure out some alternatives. I'll be shopping for Autolite 217 or 218 plugs (higher heat range), but what I really want are some of those extended tip types. I had good experience with them on an old Toyota; they made a big difference.

The Autolite web page was only a little helpful. I suppose what I need to do is get the specifications on the thread pitch and look for a longer plug. Does anybody have a cross reference for this type of research?

Thanks in advance,

 

Ah, I think you know what has to be done here and it doesn't have anything to do with spark plugs. If you're lucky, the problem is valve seals and those are easy fixes. The good news is that it probably is the valve seals. Other than that, you'll just be changing plugs from now 'till you fix the problem.

 

FYI, I answered my own question today; if your 223 is old and misfiring, if it's using oil, try swapping in a set of Autolite 85 extended tip plugs.

The near term goal is to get this 54 back on the road enough to be able to diagnose and upgrade the other systems on the truck. It does not make economical sense to overhaul any part of the current engine, especially if I can make it run well with the proper plugs. I have another engine to put in when the brakes, wiring and truck bed have been repaired.

As I stated in my original post, changing plugs to a particular design of plug can make a huge difference in the operation of the engine, buying me time to get those other things done. What's more, changing plugs to a particular kind can effectively deal with the problem without having to cure the root cause. I've done it before.

It is not helpful to point out the obvious; my engine uses oil. And to imply that trying to find a good plug for this situation is not a valid approach, is factually wrong. They make plugs to deal with this exact situation; oil fouling. They recommend moving up in the heat range to prevent oil fouling. They also recommend using an extended tip plug. Try reading some of the spark plug web sites.

Today I found a parts man who knew exactly what I needed; Autolite 85, extended tip plug. The truck is running smoothly now. With the Champion plugs, it only ran on four cylinders.

Best regads,

 

I EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM WITH MY 223 THAT HAD 260,000 MILES.I PUT IN NGK WR5 V-GROOVE PLUGS.THESE DOUBLED THE TIME BETWEEN PLUG CHANGES.

 

Hi, Merc,

It's amazing how well the truck runs with the new plugs. No more oil fouling. I pulled the plugs two days ago and they look fine. The engine runs smoothly, especially considering how badly it ran before.

Thanks for your update.

Paul