If you can replace your own spark plugs then you can basically get an idea if you have a problem .
Spark plugs are to us mechanics as a thermometer is to a doctor .. it can tell us a lot about what's going on in an engine .
Whilst a bore scope view will give a slightly better idea ( head off is best ) this is the next best thing and basically all you can do as a check without a scope .
The black tar like deposits on the far left plug are oil contamination .. or build up over time.
You will only get this when there is excessive oil in a cylinder and whilst not always from scoring it is pretty much conclusive .
There were no undue noises or smoking reported from the customer prior to this inspection .
The following pictures are what the cylinder actually looked like on a scope check .. all of Number six cyl .
First picture if opened in a new tab ( chrome ) will give a larger image to view .
This is in no way meant to be alarmist , Porsche state less than 5% of 997,s have this issue ..
This is about what you can possibly look for or be aware of when servicing your cars .
Spark plugs are to us mechanics as a thermometer is to a doctor .. it can tell us a lot about what's going on in an engine .
Whilst a bore scope view will give a slightly better idea ( head off is best ) this is the next best thing and basically all you can do as a check without a scope .
The black tar like deposits on the far left plug are oil contamination .. or build up over time.
You will only get this when there is excessive oil in a cylinder and whilst not always from scoring it is pretty much conclusive .
There were no undue noises or smoking reported from the customer prior to this inspection .
The following pictures are what the cylinder actually looked like on a scope check .. all of Number six cyl .
First picture if opened in a new tab ( chrome ) will give a larger image to view .
This is in no way meant to be alarmist , Porsche state less than 5% of 997,s have this issue ..
This is about what you can possibly look for or be aware of when servicing your cars .