Spark Plug wires ? Need Help

[CAPTBLACKSMARINE]

I DO NOT KNOW OF ANYWHERE TO BUY AFTER MARKET PLUG WIRE SFOR OUTBOARD MOTORS ,OR ATLEAST NOTHING THAT WOULD BE CHEAP ANYWAY .BUT VERY RARELY IF EVER DO THE PLUG WIRES ON AN OUTBOARD GO BAD AND ESPECIALLY ALL OF THEM ,ANYTHING SHORT OF A FIRE THAT BURNED THEM I THINK YOU WOULD BE WASTING YOUR MONEY WHEATHER THEY WERE $17 OR $2 ,IF YOU HAVE A RUNNING PROBLEM I WOULD FIND IT AND FIX OR REPLACE WHAT IS BAD ,OTHERWISE I WOULD LEAVE THEM ALONE .I HAVE BEEN REPAIRING OUTBOARDS A LONG TIME AND HAVE REPLACED VERY FEW PLUG WIRES .

 

[silv2jo]

Spark Plug wires ? Need Help

Hi guys,<br /><br />I have an 87' 150HP Merc Black Max. <br />I'm looking to replace the spark plug wires, because they are still the original.<br />The plugs being used are NGK BU8H.<br /><br />I went to a local marina, and they wanted $17 for EACH wire. That sounds a bit steep to me. <br />I can not seam to find a chart anywhere that will tell me which wires I should use so I can order online perhaps.<br /><br />Can anyone help?<br /><br />Thanks a bunch !<br />Johnny

 

[ODDD1]

Re: Spark Plug wires ? Need Help

capt black said it right...unless they are burned or chewed, leave them alone...these aren't like car wires...they have real wire inside of them, not a carbon core.....

 

[chumbucket]

Re: Spark Plug wires ? Need Help

What instrument do you use to check plug wires, how????

 

[silv2jo]

Re: Spark Plug wires ? Need Help

Thanks Guys !!<br /><br />I don't have any running problems. The motor runs great (so far!).<br /><br />I was just trying to do 'preventive' maintenance and since I was going to replace the plugs, I thought I'd replace the wires as well.<br /><br />But I'll them alone until there is problem.<br /><br />Thanks again !<br /><br />John

 

[petryshyn]

Re: Spark Plug wires ? Need Help

chumbucket<br /><br />Plug wires are to be checked for two basic tests:<br />>continuity....checked with an ohm-meter. Pending on application, the readings will differ. If wires are TVRS rated (resistor)a generic spec of 8000 ohms maximum per foot can be used. If the wires are copper or stainless core (non-TVRS, most marine) they will check close to zero resistance.<br /><br />>leakage.....while the engine is running, spray each wire down individually with a mist bottle (wife's pump bottle for hair)If engine developes a misfire while a wire is being soaked down, then that wire should be inspected.(pin-holes, rubbed through, cracked)<br /><br />Wires commonly fail from being tugged on when removing, or improper routing and/or mounting(vibration and abrasions) Having them soaked in oil is also hard on them as well, especially if they have a silicone jacket...(swells)<br /><br />After-market solid core wires are available, but come in a roll, therefore require you to install the appropriate ends. If you have the crimper, its a piece of cake.<br />

 

[novacane]

Re: Spark Plug wires ? Need Help

ohm them out outboard wires should read zero resistance a dvom works great

 

[Cpoe2]

Re: Spark Plug wires ? Need Help

If you are still want to buy new wires go to the Marine Mega Mall tab at the top of this page and type "spark plug wires" in the search by keyword box. I just got wires from them and they had them to me in 5 days.They are about $8.00 each with shipping.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Spark Plug wires ? Need Help

Several aftermarket companys make them. The best ones I have found are from Aqua Power and Wizard Performance. With the demise of AP I would use the ones from Wizard (863-666-8888). We have used them through 9500 RPM with no problem.<br /><br />Good luck!

 

[silv2jo]

Re: Spark Plug wires ? Need Help

Thanks for all the great info guys!<br /><br />I really appreciate it.<br /><br />John