spark plug wire type

[tayto]

Hi all, working on a Canadian 1950 Dodge D34. Spark plug wires look 40+ years old and are in need of replacement. I have made spark plug wire sets for HEI setups before. Done some searching here and it seems to avoid carbon wires and use copper core wires. I have found most of what I need at Napa, however they have no copper core spark plug wire nation wide. They do have 7mm spark plug wire with a "tinned metallic" core (http://www.napaonline.com/en/p/BEL734803). Is this OK to use? If not I can get 7mm stranded copper core spark plug wire from an aircraft parts supplier: http://www.aircraftspruce.ca/catalog/eppages/spkplugwire.php

 

Thanks.

Edited April 8, 2021 by tayto

[greg g]

I bought a set of universal six cylinder wires from Tractor Supply Company.  They are trim to fit and crimp on ends.  They have about 45k on them still providing trouble free service.

[tayto]

unfortunately don't have a store like that around where I live. NAPA is the only parts supplier that carries spark plug stuff, and even then it is limited. I'm surprised I found what i did. Best bet is ordering online for most things. 

[Booger]

I think 7mm is how you want to go and get some angle boots on the plug side. you'll thank me when you get "lit up" plus they fit better (or make some with a kit)

Tractor Supply if you got one

[ccudahy]

Ton's Performance has a nice selection of spark plug wires you can buy by the foot, if you are willing to make your own wires.

 

 https://tonsperformance.com/

Edited April 9, 2021 by ccudahy

[tayto]

yes i am willing to make my own wires, just wondering if the "metallic core" will be fine or do i HAVE to get the copper core. 

[ccudahy]

From what I have on the forum here as long as they are not carbon core on a points ignition you will be fine. 

Edited April 9, 2021 by ccudahy

[JBNeal]

additional information - spark plug wires

[Vin's 49 Plymouth]

Tayto, I don't think you can use anything but suppression core wires on HEI, if your using points any thing will work.

 

As far as aircraft spruce, I'm an aircraft mechanic and instructor. I wouldn't use aircraft plug wires.

Just my thoughts friend.

 

 

Vince

[tayto]

While I would normally agree, these are for the rotax. Which I don't really considered an aircraft engine, even though it powers ultralights. I use to be an aircraft mechanic for helicopters but changed careers over a decade ago. The wage was poor and my heart was never really into aviation. Got to see a lot of unpopulated places in the bush and alot of the methods I still use and apply today. 

[Vin's 49 Plymouth]

I would  try them then.

I flew in P-3 Orions in the Navy during the first gulf war. And been in aviation 30 years now. Time goes too fast.

[Sniper]

I used those metallic core wires on my 218.  Write up on my website

 

http://www.yourolddad.com/plug-wires

[tayto]

My copper core spark plug wire came yesterday and I got the plug wires completed. I opted to put 90* boots on the plug side mainly to protect myself when working under the hood with engine running. Thought I was one step closer to getting it running,but tonight while pulling the distributor I broke one of the cap hold down springs/retainer/clip. Anyone know if these are reproduced or if another distributor's can be used?

Edited April 22, 2021 by tayto

[capt den]

napa should have the cap.