The GM HEI distributors, which mostly showed up starting in 1975, use a male terminal, size and shape like the terminal on a spark plug. The older non-HEI distributor cap has female terminals. So, there's a big difference, and the HEI does take special wires .
Are HEI spark plug wires different?
The GM HEI distributors, which mostly showed up starting in 1975, use a male terminal, size and shape like the terminal on a spark plug. The older non-HEI distributor cap has female terminals. So, there's a big difference, and the HEI does take special wires .
Does it matter what spark plug wires you use?
Plug wires are most often rated by their diameter. The most common are 7mm and 8mm thicknesses, but what's more important is the conductor. The best choice is the spiro-wrap style Taylor wires that reduce resistance, minimize RFI noise, and offer the best performance.
Do plug wires really make a difference?
There isn't any performance to be gained from spark plug wires, just better build quality , which gives you not a better spark, but rather maintains an appropriate spark for more miles/years before their performance degrades to the point of needing replacement.
What happens if you use the wrong spark plug wires?
Screwing up the plug wire order would cause cylinder misfires , and the unburned fuel usually flow out to exhaust and potentially damage the O2 sensors and Cat – but should not happen with only few seconds of cranking the engine.
What size plug wires are best?
Most manufacturers recommend an 8 or 8.5mm plug wire on most applications. Exceptions would be an all-out race car or a street rod where EMI/RFI suppression is not a concern, but weight and appearance are. In which case, a 5 or 7mm wire might be a better option.
Do spark plug wires add horsepower?
In short, yes, in some situations spark plugs can increase horsepower . ... These ‘massive' gains of one or two per cent generally won't be exceeded, even if you're replacing really old and worn spark plugs for new ones. In this case, your essentially just restoring your car back to its peak performance.
What are the signs of bad spark plug wires?
- Visible Damage on the Spark Plug Wires. Spark plug wires may start to dry out over time, so look for cracks in the insulation. ...
- The Engine is Idling Rough. ...
- Engine Hesitation. ...
- Engine Misfiring.
Are Taylor spark plug wires good?
I have used Taylor plug wires for years and you can not go wrong with the reliability and durability of Taylor wires. Definitely recommend !
What's better 7mm or 8mm spark plug wires?
8mm spark plug wires are a heavier gage wire than the 7mm type. ... A more robust core provides a lower resistance path for the power, thereby allowing more power to reach the spark plugs. Additionally, the 8mm wires have a thicker outer coating that keeps the core safe from damage.
Are thicker plug wires better?
Simply stated, these larger wires offer a thicker layer of insulation to stop any chances of EMI/RFI that may affect performance. Spark plug wires are commonly direct-fit to work on a specific application.
Do expensive spark plug wires make a difference?
Benefits of Spark Plug Wires
Stronger and more durable cables hold the spark until it finds its way to the spark plug to boost the performance of your vehicle. Improve gas mileage . ... High-quality wires will allow the spark plugs to start faster and keep your engine running more effectively.
Does changing spark plug wires improve performance?
The short answer is Yes, when you replace the spark plugs and wires can increase your vehicle's performance . New spark plugs help keep your engine at its peak performance and efficiency levels. ... Worn or dirty spark plugs require higher voltage to get a strong enough spark to start a vehicle.
Will a car run with the wrong firing order?
When the firing order is wrong or delayed, the engine does not run properly . The spark may be delivered to the cylinder when there is no fuel/air mixture or before it is properly compressed. ... Turning the ignition does not start the engine.
Is it bad to cross spark plug wires?
Never cross them , always run them as close to parallel as possible. That 30,000 + volts that they carry will cross-over to another and cause mis-fires. On a dark night raise your hood while it is running and see a light show, where any wires are crossed and you will see what I am saying.
