Water around spark plug

[Unregistered]

I noticed when the engine is full throttle there is a small amount of water sizzling on the base of the third spark plug well. When the motor is idling this does not occur. Is it a water jacket problem or a head gasket problem?

[Don Moyer]

There is apparently a small amount of water seeping out of a leak in the top of the head, or perhaps from around one of the studs. The water then finds its way into the well of the third plug.

It's really necessary to observe the engine carefully for a while, to determine where the water is originating. The water is probably trickling into the plug well (perhaps even at idle), but is not being seen to boil until the engine develops more heat at high power settings.

When you discover where the leak is originating, it may be possible to repair the leak without having to remove the head. If water is seeping up along one of the studs, you can remove the nut and pour Permatex sealer between the stud and the head to seal it. If a small crack is found (usually directly in front of the alternator bracket) you'll probably want to replace the head at some opportune time, but you should be able to seal such a crack with epoxy as a temporary measure.

Regards,

Don

[pknier]

could it be that one of the freeze plugs may be leaking?