1989 Mercury Classic 50 Plug Wire ?

Karter25

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Nov 21, 2021
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I was in the process of changing my plug wires when I changed the plugs on my 89 45hp. On the coil end, the wire is VERT tight and doesn't want to come off. They do just pull off like the plug end and every other plug wire I have done? I am a novice boat owner but have plenty of experience on cars. Thanks
 

racerone

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Dec 28, 2013
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?----Why are you changing plug wires ?-----What is your motor doing / not doing ?-----Some plug wires are threaded into the coil.
 

Karter25

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Nov 21, 2021
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?----Why are you changing plug wires ?-----What is your motor doing / not doing ?-----Some plug wires are threaded into the coil.
They look to be very old. Just trying to be proactive. Engine runs fine. I saw some older motors that had a distributer cap that screwed in. This wire has a boot to each coil just like a car wire going on a cap. I tried to load a pic but the site wouldn't let me.
 

merc850

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Jul 7, 2010
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The distributor models had the wires screwed into the cap but the coil end was pushed into it and had a clip for extra security.
If the wire has a rubber boot on the coil pull it off first, check the end and look for a brass clip, then use pliers to lever the wire out. WD40 can help make the boot move.
They can be very tight.
 

Karter25

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Nov 21, 2021
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The distributor models had the wires screwed into the cap but the coil end was pushed into it and had a clip for extra security.
If the wire has a rubber boot on the coil pull it off first, check the end and look for a brass clip, then use pliers to lever the wire out. WD40 can help make the boot move.
They can be very tight.
Thanks. Is the brass clip part of the coil? Do they reinstall or come with the new wires? Sorry for all the questions, I looked all over Youtube and the web for these answers.
 

merc850

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It's crimped on to the wire and should come out with it. Don't know if a new wire comes with one.
 

Karter25

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Nov 21, 2021
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It's crimped on to the wire and should come out with it. Don't know if a new wire comes with one.
Thank you so much. I finally found a plug wire picture that showed the brass clip. I was shocked at the price of these new plug wires. I am glad there are only 4 to buy.
 

Karter25

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Nov 21, 2021
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I would not replace them.
I am leaning that way. I just try to be proactive with all of my toys. I am not sure how often boat wires should be replaced. If I had a car that age, I would replace wires. Thanks for the suggestion.
 
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