Oil in first spark plug gallery??

[wdmh306]

I have recently purchased a 1979 Fiat Spider 2000 and am finding there is oil accumulating in the first spark plug gallery around the spark plug.. Does this mean it needs valve/timing cover gaskets?? Anyone have the same issue? Thanks!!

[narfire]

I'd clean it out and make sure it is dry. Start the engine and have a look to see if you can notice anything weeping from the cam cover gaskets. They can dry out if the car has not run in quite some time and oil can ooze through. Perhaps just tightening the cover nut, but not too tight as the cover will crack, or another set of cover gaskets as you mentioned.
Any oil on the timing belt?

[wdmh306]

I'll do that! I haven't checked the timing belt yet, although I did purchase a new belt and water pump kit. So I will look at that when I replace those parts. Thanks

[Schnauzer]

I would check/replace the oil filler cap gasket. Very common for those to leak down into #1

Good Luck,

Jim

[Daniel]

Was the oil on the outside of the spark plug or the part that screws inside the engine ? If it's the outside
the cam towers are leaking oil some where. You might be able to solve the problem by re torquing the bolts
to the proper specs. If this doesn't work replacing the gaskets would be the next option.

[leftfield6]

I would check/replace the oil filler cap gasket. Very common for those to leak down into #1

Good Luck,

Jim

Yep, my old 79 would practically fill up the #1 plug hole from the oil cap gasket leaking

[FiatJim]

"I would check/replace the oil filler cap gasket. Very common for those to leak down into #1"

Does this have to be ordered or can a gasket be made?

[Schnauzer]

FiatJim:

I tried making one from cork and also neopreme. Was not able to stop the leak. Allison Automotive had some made that are a combination of cork and rubber. Got one for my 76 and one for my Son's 79. Works great. No leaks.