Really good thoughts.
Thanks for all the feedback. It is reassuring to now there is so much support out there from someone with little experience working inside an engine. Here is my plan of action:
1. Carefully monitor
oil consumption, rather than just guesstimating. I have been adding a cup here and there rather than letting it get down a quart. So my estimate of
oil consumption may not be accurate.
2. Pull the new plugs and check them in a week or two after I have some miles on them. Perhaps it was a plug problem. (Hope springs eternal).
3. If the new plug in the suspect cylinder is black and grimy, then pull off the valve cover, do a vacuum check, pressure check and pursue some of the avenues suggested. These are new areas for me, so sounds like I may be investing in some new gadgets, getting back on this forum, and asking more questions.
I guess I am in denial. It is a new engine, good quality parts, low mileage, and just runs too good to need a major repair. We will see. Thanks for the excellent ideas.