Reasons for Running Rich?

[Alan]

I've been following this thread. Thanks to all for posting. I've learned a lot. There were points mentioned which has brought somethig to mind. I have an 86 Graduate, and I've been using Bosch quad plugs for two years now. Recently, I pulled the plugs and noticed that they were black, and slightly damp / giddy. I'm thinking about going back to the original Alfa recommended plugs, but also open to suggestions. Would switching plugs solve the black damp look, or am I running rich also?
Alan Jacobowitz 86 Spider

[John M]

Hey Alan:

Black and damp say oil to me. Just a guess. I would start diagnosing with a compression check and see if oil might be coming from the rings or more likely the valve guides and seals. Also....have you noticed increased burning of oil....smoke on deceleration?

Best Regards,
John M

[Alan]

No black smoke on decel, or excel. I wondering if I fell for the marketing of the Bosch Platinum Fours, and should have stayed with the old reliable plugs.
Alan