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Spark Plug Wires Information

Spark Plug Wires
Spark Plug are designed to carry the electrical voltage from the ignition system to the spark plug. They are designed to have very low resistance so the maximum amount of energy is transferred. This transfer of electrical energy can be interrupted by several factors: If combustion gases leak past the spark plug, the ignition wires can become unconnected from the spark plug terminal due to the increased pressure. Or, the opposite effect could happen and the gases can cause the spark plug and the spark plug wire terminal to corrode and fuse together.

If moisture becomes trapped in the spark plug hole or between the spark plug and the ignition wire, it can cause arcing. This will cause permanent damage to the spark plug wires and possibly the spark plug as well. Routing plug wires in areas with excessive heat can destroy the silicone insulation.

Ignition wires need to be removed carefully. When removing the wire, do not pull on the spark plug wire, but instead grasp the spark plug boot firmly and gently remove. Make sure the engine is cold. This will prevent the connectors from becoming loose. spark plug wires should be replaced if their resistance exceeds the OEM specifications for their specific application. Ignition wires should always be replaced as a set due to the unpredictability of the internal condition of each individual ignition wire.

Some ignition wires fail from the inside, due to a breakdown of their insulation materials. Ignition wire sets should always be inspected and tested whenever a rough or erratic idle is present, poor acceleration is noticed, a decrease in fuel mileage is experienced or a vehicle fails an emissions test due to high hydrocarbon emissions or cylinder misfire fault code.

Any time an ignition wire exhibits physical damage either to the ignition wire or the boots, such as a cut, grooves or marks from chafing or scorch marks from burning, the spark plug wire should be replaced as preventative maintenance.