Spark Plug Wire Sets

[rimshot]

Hi all,

I have a 1995 Winnebago motor home on a Chevy P30 chassis with a 454 TBI engine. During routine maintenance, I tried to remove a spark plug wire and found the boot was damaged (the boot split with just a little tug). So the crux of the matter is I need to replace the spark plug wires. I went to the local NAPA store and they had a replacement set but they are 7MM vice the 8MM OEM wires. I was wondering if this set would be adequate for the motorhome since the engine must work much harder than in other applications (the motor home weighs more than 14,500 lbs loaded).

I went to the local chevy dealer and they did not have OEM wires in stock. Also, the parts guy did not know whether the set he special ordered were 7 or 8MM.

I need to get this vehicle back on the road asap. Any advice would be appreciated

jiM

 

[evelrod]

You did not say what type or brand of wire but, my experience with NAPA has been generally good over the years. The 7mm wire will probably work ok if it is a top quality set. The type of 'wire' and the type of insulation is more important than size. Any of the newer 'spiral wound' of the Sorensen type now on the market are superior to the older tvrs 'wires'. I have the same engine in my motorhome with the original wires (older than dirt) still working ok. I check them (visually and with an ohm meter) at service intervals but "if it ain't broke, don't 'fix' it!" I do have a spare set of Delco 8mm V8 set on the shelf, however. Make certain you installation is clear of hot or rubbing things that will shorten the life of the 'new' setup. A little silicone grease will ease installation.


Rod














Rod

 

[TheBlacksmith]

I second Rod. I "play" with high voltage stuff all the time at work and the total resistance of the insulation is what counts; a higher volts/mil material will provide the same protection in a thinner jacket. Also the overall wire diameter may be influenced by the conductor (wire) size. I always felt the 8 mm wires were a little bit of "bigger is/must be better" hype. Use a quality product that is listed for your application and don't lose any sleep. I would however definitely use a thin coating (use a "Q"-tip) of high dielectric silicone grease on the inside of the distributor and plug boots. Besides easing installation and later removal, it may provide some water resistance and better EMI control (less crackle in the radio). You can usually buy one engine's worth in a foil wrapper for about a buck. Don't get in on the contacts.

Blacksmith