Need new spark plug wires ASAP... What else with them?

**Naaman** · 11-04-2011, 05:47 PM

My number two spark plug wire is fried (loose connection, it was flopping around, but no misfires). I'll be replacing the wires, but I'm on a budget, and would like to keep costs down to only what's necessary.

Do I risk anything by keeping the plugs? I definitely cannot afford a set of coils.

**tatertot91** · 11-04-2011, 05:52 PM

Msds can be found found for around 50 bucks
Best bang for your buck as far as the wires go

**cpop98ws6** · 11-04-2011, 06:18 PM

+ 1 on the MSDs. Wouldn't be a bad idea to change your plugs while you are there. No need to replace the coils.

**Knight** · 11-04-2011, 07:08 PM

Agree with the above. I run MSD's as well.

**Naaman** · 11-04-2011, 08:49 PM

MSDs is what I'm planning on. Hoping not to have to buy plugs yet, but if it's necessary, I'll have to bite the bullet...

**SteveC** · 11-05-2011, 05:27 AM

Why would you want to replace the coils (unless defective)?, they emit 48K volts down a 10" spark plug wire, CERTAINLY that must be enough spark to ignite the gasoline.

SteveC

**pajeff02** · 11-05-2011, 07:33 AM

Plugs are like $3 each unless you are buying Iridiums. Not a bad idea to change them while you have the wires pulled anyway. Make sure that when you install the new wires, you hear or feel one "click" on the plug and two "clicks" on the coil. If you have headers and need added clearance, the MSD boots can be bent and will hold their shape.

**cammed goat** · 11-05-2011, 02:21 PM

Try the wires first. If the miss persists, you will need plugs as you may have fouled the plug in cyl #2.

**robcas47** · 11-05-2011, 04:23 PM

+1 on MSD wires, I think Granetelli's are the best out there but $150+ for wires is ridiculous. You can find MSD + NGK Plugs on ebay for around $55. If you get Iridiums make sure you gap them correctly, there's a sticky in here about that. Also don't forget to use the grease, I'm sure some might think it's useless but when it comes time to pull the wires you'll appreciate it.

**666ws6** · 11-05-2011, 05:41 PM

I will have a set of Thundervolt 50's from Taylor coming off my car soon. Have roughly 30k miles on them. I bought a blue set from a friend for cheap and am doing some engine bay work. PM me if interested. They sell for about $80 new and I found them a bit better than the MSD's I had. But both are solid.

**pajeff02** · 11-05-2011, 05:45 PM

+1 Like Rob said, a dab of dielectric grease in each plug boot is a great idea. It helps seal out moisture and makes the plug boot much easier to remove when you have to change them again. I think I also used a bit of grease on the coils too, but really don't recall for certain.

**robcas47** · 11-05-2011, 09:22 PM

Originally Posted by pajeff02

I think I also used a bit of grease on the coils too, but really don't recall for certain.

I use grease on both ends and never any issues.

**Naaman** · 11-07-2011, 03:48 PM

Hmmm... is there any safe way to remove the plugs without a spark plug socket? I'm not sure I can afford to go out and buy one right now....

**cpop98ws6** · 11-07-2011, 04:10 PM

Originally Posted by Naaman

Hmmm... is there any safe way to remove the plugs without a spark plug socket? I'm not sure I can afford to go out and buy one right now....

You can find one for like $5 at a parts store. Just did a quick search and it looks like ACE hardware has one for 3 bucks.

**pajeff02** · 11-07-2011, 06:36 PM

I wouldn't attempt it without a socket. Can you borrow one from a friend? Also, it helps to have a 1-1/2" extension.

**Naaman** · 11-09-2011, 11:29 AM

I just ordered a Snap-On double jointed spark plug socket. Will probably have it on Wednesday...

I was hoping to get this done in one day.... oh well... such is life.