WATER IN #1 SPARK PLUG WELL

[GerryAttrick]

I have a 1999 318ti MSport and it has been running rough on start up - the car lives outside. After a bit of searching I have discovered water (not coolant) in the #1 (front)plug well.

Looks like it is getting in under the plastic plug cover and running to the front of the engine and filling the plug well BUT I can't see where it has been getting in. I thought it might have been getting in thru the air intake grill on the bulkhead but if it is I can't see how it is running from there to the plug cover.

Anyone experienced and fixed this before or any suggestions.

Once the water is cleaned up and the plug and wires dried out it runs like a BMW should

[aceyx]

http://www.318ti.org/forum/showthread.php?t=20567

[angel318ti]

I have seen it before but it as coming in from the back of the engine and running forward along the plastic top cover. you might want to check your weather stripping around the hood especially in the area above the valve cover in the back of the engine.

[GerryAttrick]

Thanks Aceyx and angel318ti.

Looks like it is reasonably common judging by the thread.

I'll have a look at the weather stripping. It looks in good condition but the plastic vent seems to be a bit loose. I might try reseating it all and then see what happens when I run a hose over it. Other than that maybe a bead of silicone around the valve cover might be worth a try.