Oil on spark plugs! head gasket?

[brianw84]

Do i need to replace the head gasket? valve gasket? and how do i do this? i want to fix it myself and im not driving it until i fix it. btw i discoved the problem after finding out those bosch 4 plugs are bad, and mine were all crappy looking too!

[Febi Guibo]

We have the E36 bentley here on PDF... it covers the M42 engine, including removing the timing cover, cylinder head so you can check stuff out and replace the gasket...

http://m42club.com/forums/showthread.php?t=182

[brianw84]

Thank You!!

[brianw84]

should i replace other gaskets too?

[Febi Guibo]

yup... timing case + profile...

let's face it, this is a great time to replace the timing chain, timing chain rail, tensioner, thermostat and water pump too.

Ain't cars great! :D

[Wizard]

If there is just oil laying on top of the plugs, it is your valve cover gasket and the spark plug seals. See:
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=AF93&mospid=47305&btnr=11_0264&hg=11&fg=15
and you can get an idea of what you need to change.