Sputter when above 5000 RPM
 

I've recently noticed I have a small amount of sputter when I'm above 5000 RPM, I'm not sure why, I'm thinking maybe spark plugs, or wires? Now one thing I am aware of is I have a small head gasket leak, and I also have a small crack in the valve cover which causes a small amount of oil to puddle around the spark plugs, it's not flooding the spark plugs but a little bit of oil does puddle against the front of the valve cover. I also occasionally have white smoke come out of the exhaust but that really only happens when I let the engine run high, for example, If I'm driving hard (using boost), or if I downshift when coming to a light, and let the engine come down from like 4000 RPM, btw I do use the brake too. I have also noticed that I have a lot of oil deposit inside the exhaust, and even splatter specks on the bumper around the exhaust tip. I try not to drive the car too hard as I know I need to fix some of these things, I am in the process of ordering a replacement cometic head gasket, and a valve cover.

Do you think the sputter above 5K RPM is related to any of the other problems I listed? Or could it be from something else, if so, what? Thanks.

RE: Sputter when above 5000 RPM
 

well i would say that spark plugs are cheap so try that first and see if it gets alittle better. they are probably messing up from the oil getting to them.

RE: Sputter when above 5000 RPM
 

What kind of spark plugs are you using?

RE: Sputter when above 5000 RPM
 

I'm not sure what plugs are in the car right now, they are whatever was in the car when I bought it, and I'm not sure if they're generic, or a higher quality brand. I can look when I get home tonight.

RE: Sputter when above 5000 RPM
 

Change em out with good ole classic NGKs and OEM spark plug wires. Should be fine.

RE: Sputter when above 5000 RPM
 

Do aftermarket spark plugs / spark plug wires give you any benefit of use? I understand that there are different spark plugs which give you an increased chance of spark with 1 or more extra tips. I guess I just want to know the advantage you get out of using aftermarket wires?

RE: Sputter when above 5000 RPM
 

just get what seb told ya, you wont notice a huge difference in aftermarket plugs, 'specially for the money

RE: Sputter when above 5000 RPM
 

There have been tests done and no one has ever been able to confirm that the more expensive, specially designed plugs perform any better than the OEM ones, I am using NGK BP7RES and they work great, I have only had problems when I use anything but the normal plugs.

RE: Sputter when above 5000 RPM
 

just make sure you dont get iridium, they will make these cars run like butt lol

RE: Sputter when above 5000 RPM
 

Question?? If the car runs smooth when in idle, would that not be an indicator that the spark plugs are ok? Could this be an issue with the fuel mixture?