How to properly ground spark plug wires

[Hoyt79]

What is the best way to properly ground the spark plug wires? Manual says to ground the wires to the engine with a jumper wire....what type of wire? How do I get it to stay in the plug wire?

 

[SirEnvy]

Re: How to properly ground spark plug wires

I would go down to your local hardware store. Get some 16GA wire, and alligator clips. Put alligator clips on both end of the wire and clip the metal part inside the boot, and then ground to the motor. Do that for every one as necessary.

 

[oldcatamount]

Re: How to properly ground spark plug wires

I don't understand, why would you want to ground a spark plug wire? I know that some guys ground the spark plug itself (still connected to the wire) to the outside of the motor when the are checking for spark but, I don't know why you would want to ground the wire.

 

[beagleboy]

Re: How to properly ground spark plug wires

On CD ignitions if you don't ground and crank over, your electronics will build up energy and eventually fry. On PWC there are actual grounding out prongs to hook the plug wires to when cranking the motor during maintenance.

 

[boobie]

Re: How to properly ground spark plug wires

Sometimes with the plugs laying out on a ground they can still spark. And with the plugs out and fuel fumes coming out of the plug holes you could have a big POOF. Been there. Best thing is jumper wires or make sure the ignition switch is in the off position.

 

[Hoyt79]

Re: How to properly ground spark plug wires

I don't understand, why would you want to ground a spark plug wire? I know that some guys ground the spark plug itself (still connected to the wire) to the outside of the motor when the are checking for spark but, I don't know why you would want to ground the wire.

See both comments after yours....it also says this in this service manual but just doesn't give any advice on how to make a grounding device.

 

[boobie]

Re: How to properly ground spark plug wires

Check SirEnvy"s comments.

 

[HighTrim]

Re: How to properly ground spark plug wires

I either use test leads as mentioned, shove one of the alligator clips in the boot, other end to the powerhead.

If I am at home, I use my inline adjustable spark tester, set the gap to 0". Get your moneys worth out of your tool.

 

[SirEnvy]

Re: How to properly ground spark plug wires

I either use test leads as mentioned, shove one of the alligator clips in the boot, other end to the powerhead.

If I am at home, I use my inline adjustable spark tester, set the gap to 0". Get your moneys worth out of your tool.

I second this...dont buy the one from AutoZone, they are junk and will usually break on your first use.