Anyhow, I know next to nothing to cars so here goes with yet another question.

Decided to check my spark plugs, and when I remove one from the socket I got some oil on the threads (the oil appears to be on the thread area opposite the electrode, which appears to be dry. I haven't driven that car today (drove my Geo) and I don't recall seeing oil on that car's spark plugs, so I think I may have a problem.

 

Your spark plug tube seals need ot be changed. It's a $20 kit from just about anywhere and HERE is a how-to!

 

Something like these?

(I know they're in Canada, that's why they're examples)

Edit: Driving around with this kind of problem isn't going to ruin my engine is it? Wouldn't want to try and drive it down to the store and get new parts, only to discover that my engine fried itself.

 

those are them....it would be a good idea to get the valve cover gasket too, if the seals are bad then the cover gasket might be too....but the gasket probally comes in the whole kit

it would be a good idea to get it done soon

 

Yes those are what you need. But you should get a kit like Spud said because you will have to remove your valve cover to get to them and that gasket should be replaced as well. It's not hard at all and I think all you need is a 10mm socket.

You won't fry the engine driving like that, but change them soon.

 

My Haynes manual would agree with you.

 

i think the dohc's need an 8mm socket.....but im not positive.....not that it matters, but i thought i would put that in here

 

Well, I think I've mentioned I'm a SOHC but not in this thread.

I'll probably need to buy a valve cover gasket & the spark plug tube seals.

 

Nope....it's 10mm also.

 

If it is only on the threads and not the outside portions of the plug then it might be no big deal. If you have oil that is getting on your socket when you remove them or covering the area above the gasket then you have tube seal leakage. If JUST on the threads pretty common to have some oil and or fuel. If the plug otherwise looks good then smile and go on.