'54 rude 25 tidbits and small question

I finally after about 40 tries got the float set right on my '54 25 evinrude. I got it to run but it ran crappy. So I pulled the plug wires one by one and the bottom cylinder was dead (it wasn't yesterday). So I was baffled since it worked the other day after I rebuilt the ignition, the float was just cutting the gas off or flooding it or it would run fine. I then pulled the flywheel to check it out again in case I got a little clearcoat in between the points when I painted it. Couldn't find a problem, so I actually pulled out the cheapo 10 dollar meter I had gotten at walfart's and checked the coil wires. I got my wife to hold the meter while I flexed the wire in various areas and darned if I didn't actually find a spot where the wire was broken inside the insulation! I am an electrical idiot so I was pretty pleased I figured it out. Also, I had called Laing's Friday for a high speed knob and valve and danged if it didn't arrive in the mail today! Pretty good service, eh?!
Now for my questions---can you buy the spark plug wire by the foot? I have read it needs to be copper-core wire. Is this specifically for outboards or can I get it at an autoparts store. If not, where's a good spot to buy it from?
Also, should I go ahead and replace the wire on my other old outboards since they're constantly being flexed and all of them look very old or original? Could I notice a difference in running if they already run pretty good?
Thanks,
JBJ

Re: '54 rude 25 tidbits and small question

It's unusual for them to break inside, but loss of contact at the spring in the plug boot is common. So is arcing out through the insulation where they clamp to the bottom of the armature plate.

Yes, you need "wire" wire. The carbon core stuff for cars is a no-no. Some auto parts stores carry wire wire by the foot, some don't. If you have a rural parts store that does a lot of tractor and farm equipment business, they are the best bet. Lawn mower and outboard shops SHOULD have it but I find that around here most of them don't.

Re: '54 rude 25 tidbits and small question

if you can find them locally, call Jim at laings. he is one of the fastest shippers i know.

Re: '54 rude 25 tidbits and small question

Check Napa or Carquest, they both carry Sierra parts. 100 foot roll, OR marina should be the easiest source.

Re: '54 rude 25 tidbits and small question

I get my solid-core plug wire by the foot in rolls at the two small engine shops here in town.