Re: Would a bad sparkplug wire cause:

On 30 Oct 2005 22:37:21 -0800, "oldkid" <o2pz5y402@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
wrote:

> it seems economy is a primary concern.even if just on principle.what
>i do is remove end off wire and cut back to good "wire"1/2 inch at a
>time.then put end back on.then test wire for spark by putting back on
>coil and sticking a spare sparkplug in boot and grounding.(lay on
>engine)do not hold plug while engine is turned over.or just replace
>that wire.if problem persists.consider complete tune-up.

I might add that on modern engines a certain amount of resistance is
expected in the spark plug wires. So many Kohms / foot. If you are
within a factor of 2 of the factory specs, you might be able to trim
the wire back. But if you get into the 5 or 10 factor range of error,
you can screw up your ignition module and ruin your engine.

The ignition module in a modern engine is _designed_ to expect a
certain resistance in the plug wires. The plug wires are in fact part
of the design parameters for the ignition pack.

It is a good idea when buying replacement wires to check them with an
ohm meter, to be sure you are _close_ to factory specs. Or you can
fry some stuff in your engine, the main thing being the ignition
module. And then you replace it, and fry it AGAIN. And this ***
keeps going on forever, because you =have= to be within tolerance of
the design parameters for the 30,000 volt and up circuit.

It is best to stick with OEM wires from a dealership when replacing
your plug wires. And route them _exactly_ as the originals are
routed, or you can have *crosstalk* between them, which will further
screw things up.

Pay the extra bucks and get OEM wires from the car dealership. And it
isn't only a matter of the resistance, the insulation characteristics
of the wires are just as important.

Penny wise, dollar foolish, when it comes to replacing or *shortening*
plug wires.

Lg

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