spark plug wires

[magicbandit]

Is there a difference between the spark plug wires on a car and on a boat.<br />i have a 1990 454 volvo penta. can i just use a set of big block wires from the local auto store???<br />thanks guys<br />mike

 

[Yepblaze]

Re: spark plug wires

Maybe yes, Maybe no.<br /><br />If the terminal ends at the cap are the same, at the plug are the same, and the lenths due to routing, the same, then I would say yes, probably OK.

 

[boatingfool]

Re: spark plug wires

I have heard that they are different.<br />Something about safety with fuel vapors in the engine compartment that dont build up in a car.<br /><br />If you dont use the marine grade plug wires there is an increased danger of an ignition of the fuel vapors in the engine compartment.<br /><br />Not sure where I heard that but I believe it was on one of these boating boards.<br /><br />Their explanation was a bit more technical.

 

[JasonB]

Re: spark plug wires

I went through this same question last fall. I finally came to a conclucion. Since I tend to buy better grade items for my vehicles and boats, a 8mm, decent grade set at the parts store was going to cost me about $30-$35+tax. Yeah you can get a set for $17.99, but I wanted something better. I found that I could get a great set of marine grade MagStar 8mm wires for $35 online. I looked in the Iboats Marine Mega-mall here to show them to you, but didn't find them (may be there though, would suggest checking again, sorry if I missed them). I bought mine from Overtons. They work great and should have no problems carrying spark when I upgrade my ignition to a 40,000 volt system later this spring. <br /><br />Check teh specs on the Magstars on the mfgrs website here: http://www.wiretec-ignition.com/prod04.htm

 

[BigBabyLou]

Re: spark plug wires

Not a clue about the safety issues but I can tell you that automotive wires rarely fit the V-type engines. Why? The exhaust manifolds are in the way and you need longer wires to get to the spark plug. Also, the distributor cap might have different terminals. Mine does. I couldn't find any automotive wires to fit my OMC 460.<br /><br />Hope this helps.<br />Lou