Plug image - Head gasket needed?

[Mudquest]

Changed the plugs today and as expected, I noticed some white crust. Please review the plug image as attached. (#2 position) This is about the worst of the bunch, but they all had the same issue. I beleive this to be a sign of coolant burning up. I've been topping off coolant more than I think is acceptable, each week. About a 1/4 cup. No smoke, no signs of coolant around engine area.

How severe does this appear, and how immediately neccessary is the looming head gasket repair?

 

[Mudquest]

Actually, it seems this is rather normal and actually a sign of a properly tuned engine. The white 'crust' so to speak, is not what I originally thought it to be.

So my never ending search for the cause of coolant loss continues. Not fun.

 

[joey]

http://www.globaldenso.com/PLUG/basic_knowledge/troubleshooting/index.html


I Like this one better.
http://www.partsamerica.com/Maintenance/MaintenanceSparkPlugTips.aspx

 

[Mudquest]

Thanks Joey - great links. Now I can move on to the numerous other repair/replacements with the peace of mind knowing my plugs were fine. At least something is...

Next:
Find coolant leak source.
Replace u-joints.
New shocks, springs.
Poly bushes.
Replace steering shaft (thanks to Will for the used part)
Dig into engine for rocker shafts, valves, and possible head gasket.

It's now become a mission.