Newbie has leaks around spark plugs

[Anonymous]

Hello all. Here is another newbie question for you all.

I just pulled my 66 mustang 200ci inot the garage after a day of stalls, sputters, and a 45 minute no start. Luckly I was at the local Farm & Fleet store to get new spark plugs, wires, and fuel filter, and after much prayer made it home to the garage. I have only changed the oil and air filer up until today, and I think she sat for some time before I picked her up a couple of weeks ago. Until now I have done mostly clean up on this restification.

1. While installing the new plug wires, I noticed that spark plug 2, 4, & 5 are leaking. I am getting ready to put in the new plugs, but wanted to know if I have bigger problems.

2. The fuel filter had gritty red colored fuel coming out of it. It IS old. I think I am the first to show this pony any love. Should I be very concerned?

Thanks for all your help. Everything I have learned has been more than worth the small donation I have made to this board. Who needs an 8 when you can sweeten a 6!?

 

[Falcon62]

While installing the new plug wires, I noticed that spark plug 2, 4, & 5 are leaking.

The leaking plugs are probably just loose. Go ahead and remove the old plugs and replace them with your new sparkers.

The fuel filter had gritty red colored fuel coming out of it. <snip> Should I be very concerned?

Maybe. If you have red colored gritty stuff in the filter, it could be from sediment in the fuel tank, or the lines. Replace the filter and keep an eye on it. You may have to change it a few times before it cleans up. Worst case scenario - you may have to reseal or replace the fuel tank and/or your fuel lines. Not that difficult or expensive.

 

[Anonymous]

I appreciate this I6 101 advise. I am sure this is pretty easy stuff... Next week I install the HUGE blower!

Jist kidding...

 

[BIGREDRASA]

Sounds like you have sediment/rust in the gas tank. I installed a large, see-through filter into the line feeding the fuel pump, after experiencing probs with the little filters the screw into the carbs. 8)
As far as the plugs, if you mean that there is oil on the plug tips, you probably need to install new umbrella seals on the valve stems. Pull the rocker arm cover off and look for pieces of black, brittle rubber. Also see if you can see the umbrella seals on the tips of each valve.