Making my own spark plug wires. Good idea? (Page 1/2)
Cliff Pennock SEP 15, 04:59 AM
My Fiero needs new spark plug wires but I'm unable to find them here in the Netherlands. So I'm thinking of making my own. One thing I noticed on the current wires is that they don't have heat shields at the engine side. Is that a problem?

Anyway, does anyone know the correct lengths for the wires (min/max is fine)? Best wire thickness? Resistance?
fierosound SEP 15, 09:21 AM


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[This message has been edited by fierosound (edited 09-15-2020).]

Cliff Pennock SEP 15, 02:25 PM
👍
Dennis LaGrua SEP 15, 08:00 PM
I've always built my own spark plug wire set to get a hotter spark to the plugs. For this I purchase a Universal set of MSD superconductor wires, cut them to size and crimp on the coil (distributor) side contacts with the enclosed tool. MSD Superconductor 8mm wire has a resistance of only 50 ohms per ft. Regular performance wires are rated at 300 ohms per ft and standard factory wire is 5000 ohms per ft. Less resistance = hotter spark

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"THE COLUSSUS"
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David Hambleton SEP 15, 09:45 PM
Rock Auto will mail a Standard Motor Products Pro Series 27667 wire set to Haarlem by 30Sep2020 for $37.10 US including customs.
Cliff Pennock SEP 16, 02:54 AM

quote
Originally posted by David Hambleton:

Rock Auto will mail a Standard Motor Products Pro Series 27667 wire set



Are they any good? It's just... $17 for spark plug wires... Over here a decent set of wires would set you back for well over $100.
Dennis LaGrua SEP 16, 03:39 AM

quote
Originally posted by Cliff Pennock:


Are they any good? It's just... $17 for spark plug wires... Over here a decent set of wires would set you back for well over $100.



Standard Motor Products pro series ignition wires are silicone and made from spiral core wire. They are good and will work. IMO, not as good as the MSD Superconductor wire but for a stock engine they should work well.

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" THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite.
"THE COLUSSUS"
87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H
" ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "

David Hambleton SEP 16, 08:54 AM

quote
Originally posted by Cliff Pennock:


Are they any good? It's just... $17 for spark plug wires... Over here a decent set of wires would set you back for well over $100.



I can't personally vouch for the quality, but I've had very good success with everything I've sourced from Rock Auto for a variety of vehicles.
They have 11 choices of wire sets that were supplied for 20 vehicle lines from 1985 to 1993 ranging from $5.27 to $26.79 which is the "high performance" 8.5 mm set.
The set I showed above has a heart beside it in their listing, indicating it's a popular choice. The $26.79 set has a heart showing as well.

Have a look here: https://www.rockauto.com/en...k+plug+wire+set,7224
PhatMax SEP 16, 10:32 AM
Less resistance does equal hotter spark but less duration
Of said spark....I guess if you’re using a MSD system it doesn’t much matter as you get multiple sparks.
css9450 SEP 16, 11:05 AM

quote
Originally posted by Dennis LaGrua:

For this I purchase a Universal set of MSD superconductor wires, cut them to size and crimp on the coil (distributor) side contacts with the enclosed tool.



I use those too. The crimping and cutting tool works flawlessly.

I like to take my time and ensure the lengths are just right so that the "droop" of each wire is the same, particularly on the rear (visible) side of the engine. It always bugs me when the pre-made wires wires fit all differently and one hangs down really low, the next one is borderline too short, etc.