Can Spark Plug Wires Touch Each Other. Should I worry much about this cross stuff? I did read Sep 18, 2012
Should I worry much about this cross stuff? I did read Sep 18, 2012 · The customer wants the plug wires routed under the headers for appearance sake. Feb 28, 2024 · From the outside, spark plug wires look like basic components that carry sparks to the spark plug from the coil. I’m trying to decide if shorty spark plugs will fix my problem? Or spark plug wires with shorter boots? It’s hard to tell how much shorter the Accel Shorty Plugs are online. Wrong connections will result in engine misfiring, engine hesitation, engine surging, rough idling, and engine warning light. It doesn't take long to figure out the inner workings of a spark plug. May 28, 2013 · prostreet, I agree with the no touch idea, electricity always take the path of least resistance. Mar 26, 2025 · The ignition components from the shell of the spark plug to the top of the coil are electrostatically charged. Type “can spark plugs cause transmission issues?” into a search bar and you will see a mix of answers that range from calm reassurance to horror stories. How to Correctly Route SBC Spark Plug Wires Mid-Year Mitch 14. ” Spark plug wires should never touch each other, as this can lead to a number of problems. Apr 8, 2008 · True. Aug 7, 2007 · They help keep plug wires from touching metal. Ozone can be produced by errant current inside the hole where the plug and coil are located. We Offer Spark Plug Wires For Almost Any Application! We offer a variety of spark plug wire kits, everything from style classic small block Chevy wire sets to more modern import and LS coil pack wire sets. Touching them, especially while the engine is running, can be extremely dangerous. My recollection is that at each end of the spark plug wire, a connector attached to the top of the spark plug, and to a matching connector on the top of the distributor. Learn how to connect spark plug wires to a distributor with a helpful diagram. If the wires don’t perform well, engine Spacing spark plug wires too close or parallel to each other can also result in crossfiring due to the inductive field which builds up in one wire as the current flows in the other. Oct 6, 2016 · 1987 - 1996 F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks - Are plug wires touching each other bad? - This question can go for any engine really but is it bad for plug wires to touch or cross over each other as long as the insulation is good? Dec 29, 2025 · Contact between spark plug wires can create unintended electrical paths. Additionally, a reading occuring when one probe is touching the terminal and the other is touching any other metal portion of the spark plug (i. Use non conductive plug wire looms that keep the plug wires separated by 1/2" or more. If you have the high-resistance wires, there is a chance your simple tester might not register continuity. Nov 30, 2008 · Good spark plug wire usually has less than about 400-500ohms ohms resistance per ft. Jun 28, 2006 · So I'm guessing that having the plug wires touching each other could cause the spark impulse to take the wrong path. This can attract particles of debris and oil to the spark plug, boot and coil. When spark plug wires touch, they create a short circuit. If I can I want them not touching. Your correct that less resistance tends to allow more SPARK energy a crossed the plug gap, which in most cases is best set in the . After all, every kid loves to experiment, even if that means risking everything in the process. 1 day ago · He did everything right—spark plugs, coils, the works… So why is this 2008 Corolla still misfiring? Jan 13, 2025 · Hybrid Systems: For example, some Lexus or Toyota models have individual coils on one cylinder bank, and wires carrying high voltage to the opposite bank. The high voltage can cause a severe electric shock, potentially leading to serious injury or even death. Taylor Cable Products answers the most frequently asked questions. Split the wires up, you can run some high over the valve cover, and some low. Understanding whether they can touch helps prevent misfires, reduced performance, and potential electrical arcing. Jan 24, 2024 · You need to check if the spark plug wires are connected correctly. 7K subscribers Subscribed How to Test a Spark Plug Wire: Video tutorial on how to test a spark plug wires. Also, if possible, keep wires run parallel to at least an inch away from any and all other wires. Once this happens, voltage can jump to ground instead of reaching the spark plug. May 7, 2022 · The idea of touching two hot wires together can be both terrifying and fascinating. Aug 17, 2001 · Hey guys an earlier post made me question the way I have my plug wires. Dec 4, 2025 · How to Install New Spark Plug Wires: A Step-by-Step Guide Replacing your spark plug wires is a straightforward maintenance task that can significantly improve your engine’s performance. The problem with this is some, if not all the wires will be touching something hot. These wires play a crucial role in the ignition system, We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Why would the current go through the insulation resistance, the finger resistance and the air gap between the finger and the Aug 5, 2024 · Whether or not spark plug wires can touch valve covers depends on several factors: Wire Routing: The manner in which spark plug wires are routed can determine their proximity to valve covers. Jul 1, 2005 · Q: I got a pretty good shock from one of my Toyota Camry’s spark-plug wires. This article explains the risks, proper routing, and maintenance tips to keep the ignition system reliable. And when I put a 90 degree on the plug, it cleared but then sits at an awkward angle. Although I know the insulation does a great job, I still want them seperated. [1] Jun 4, 2023 · If there is any issue with the spark plug wires the engine spark can be disturbed, which can result in engine performance. Avoid wires touching each other to prevent misfires. On one end, each wire will be attached to a spark plug and on the other end, to a distributor or ignition coils. How To Tell Which Spark Plug Wire Goes Where Spark plug wires are supposed to be connected to the corresponding correct spark plug housed within the cylinder. The wrong combination of spark plug wires leads to power decreasing. I didn’t think much about it at the time other than to never touch them again when the engine is running. Im rewiring a 1987 sunbird, 4 cylinders, old dist cap. Anybody else think this might cause an occasional miss? Bonus: Pull off plug leads and replace them with each other and note which cylinder affects the running of the engine you can easily find the faulty wire. ) to kill the plug (s) while it’s under compression. May 24, 2025 · Each spark plug wire needs its own dedicated path to the spark plug. 9mm. Later I Consult Manual. Over time spark plug wires will wear out, causing various engine operation issues such as hard starting, misfires, rough idling, poor performance, poor fuel economy, and improper combustion burn. Sep 25, 2018 · Proper spark plug gap ensures the best running conditions for your engine. The spark plug wire’s primary work is to transmit spark from the distributor or ignition coil to the spark plugs. When a car will not start, many drivers blame the battery or starter first, but spark plugs sit right in the middle of the process. If you cross wires on an 8-cylinder vehicle, you still have 6 cylinders to power the engine. Nov 9, 2022 · Abrasion damage When spark plug wires rub against engine parts, particularly sharp edges, it causes cuts and breaks in the insulation. Yes, spark plug problems can feel like transmission issues, but they rarely damage the transmission itself. Nov 19, 2025 · Meter set to DC volts scale? Meter battery is good and test leads are good? Meter will read zero on Ohms scale when the 2 leads touch each other? Spark plug wires not frayed or shorting out? By chance did you swap ignition coils from your spare engine and try the ignition module test with a different coil? Let us know what you find Yes, bad spark plugs can keep a car from starting by weakening or blocking the spark needed to ignite the air fuel mixture in the cylinders. May 20, 2014 · Hi all, I'm looking to get a new set of spark plug wires for my BBC. Proper insulation and routing are key to maintaining electrical efficiency in the exhaust system. Which is correct? Also, if you have high quality wires like some Accel Keep those spark plug wires from touching anything hot in your engine bay for prolonged life and for a better spark! Spark plug wires play a crucial role in delivering high voltage from the ignition coil to the spark plugs. Jul 16, 2002 · Never allow plug wires to touch each other or the base metal of the engine. If you have to cross, make it at 90°, with space between. Increasing Resistance: Perhaps the best way to tell if your spark plug wires need to be replaced is to test their resistance. They run. The wires are typically located next to the valve covers in the cylinder head. Sep 10, 2021 · Veteran engine builder Wayne Scraba gives you a wealth of ignition wire building and routing tips for optimal spark delivery. Avoid damage and get back on the water quickly! Sep 8, 2020 · I'm trying to understand the physics. Jun 7, 2025 · Locate the spark plug wires. If you cross wires with a 4-cylinder vehicle, you only have 2 cylinders running correctly. But be aware that the resistance of automotive spark plug wires can vary from about 40 ohms/ft to 10,000 ohms/ft depending on application. May 8, 2020 · Even with newer RF high suppression wires, the rule of thumb is to cross wires over at 90 degree angles to each other, not run them parallel with each other. The ones I have are old and just look worn out. Failure to completely understand manual and product could result in death or serious injury. Need to test your spark plug wires and not sure what to do? Or want to refresh your knowledge before you start? Read our helpful guide to find out. . AutohausAZ wants to help you spark your car’s performance! Check out our blog on breaking down the proper use of spark plugs & spark plug wires to help keep your engine at peak performance! Dec 29, 2022 · We also test each one of our wires after we build them to ensure that we give you the best quality and performance from the start. Ensure proper ignition timing for your vehicle with this step-by-step guide. Jun 2, 2023 · While there's no specific mileage interval for testing spark plug wires, a general rule of thumb is to check them during each major tune-up or when you replace the plugs, usually between 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on your vehicle's make and model and the type of spark plugs you're using. Sep 18, 2016 · I heard spark plug wires (SPW) souyld cross at some point from distributor cap to plug. Dual-Plug Hemi Engines: Certain Chrysler Hemi motors use two spark plugs per cylinder—one fired directly by a coil and the other powered via a spark plug wire from the opposite cylinder bank. When wires are too close together, they can interfere with each other’s electromagnetic fields. I'd really like a set that could be tucked away inbetween the headers and block. Apr 22, 2024 · The main function of the spark plug wire is to transfer spark energy from the ignition coil or distributor to the spark plugs. Jun 4, 2025 · Can Spark Plug Wires Touch Each Other Careful wiring of spark plug wires ensures optimal engine performance. Mar 17, 2021 · How to change spark plugs is a topic that tends to get a good amount of attention from DIYers. Installing spark plugs in the exhaust system can enhance performance. 045 range in my experience, for HEI ignitions and . Jun 6, 2024 · The answer to this question is a resounding “no. Jan 28, 2018 · During reassembly, I noticed one of the spark plug boots touches the header tube. Jul 15, 2024 · The question of whether spark plug wires can touch is a common concern among vehicle owners. Old or damaged spark plug wires can lead to misfires, reduced fuel efficiency, and a decrease in overall power. Creative Ty-Wrap usage will do for testing. e the nut) is an indicator of a malfunctioning spark plug. Potential risks include engine misfires, reduced fuel efficiency, rough idle, and higher emissions. What happens if you cross wires with a 4 cylinder engine? Each cylinder has a spark plug. Today’s vehicles can shock you with high voltage. Even if you spend extra cash on the best iridium spark plugs and install them expertly, if you don't replace the spark plug wires at the same time you're probably wasting both time and money. Qavion likes this. Jun 6, 2024 · The answer to this question is a resounding “no. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Feb 24, 2015 · For trouble-shooting purposes, it doesn't have to be pretty. After all, changing spark plugs is a regular maintenance item. The wires fit, but they touch the primary tubes in some spots, and all 4 wires on each side are running through a 1. Nov 19, 2015 · High Performance: High performance doesn’t always mean a long lifespan, and some types of high performing spark plug wires may need relatively frequent replacement (every 30,000 to 40,000 miles). Jul 13, 2025 · While spark plug wires are designed to handle high voltages, it’s crucial to remember that they are not toys. 030 plug gap for a As engines and their electronics become more complex, spark plugs remain accessible and easy to understand. The spark plug has a gap of 0. This normally means a defective spark plug or there is something going on inside that cylinder (s) (low compression, too rich, coolant, etc. 040-. The spark plug wires are made of a material that has low resistance and is sturdy enough to withstand the high voltage of the ignition system and the hard conditions found under the hood. Some people say they weave their wires together to prevent crossfire and others say they keep em seperated and running parallel to prevent crossfire. --- In conclusion, testing your spark plugs is a straightforward process that can save you from potential engine troubles down the road. Read and understand manual completely before using product. Its primary function is to transfer high-voltage electricity from the ignition coil to the spark plug, which then ignites the fuel-air mixture in the engine. Dec 12, 2025 · Measure each wire by placing the wires on the appropriate probes ensuring they touch the metal contacts. If the reading is within the manufacturer’s guidelines, the wire can be returned. 2 days ago · Learn how to safely remove a broken spark plug from your jet ski with our step-by-step guide. Then, I read crossing can produce "induction firing", which can mess up spark timing to a plug. The spark plug wires are manufactured with low resistance, durable material that can stand harsh conditions under the hood, as well as the high voltage of the ignition system. Most Aug 24, 2019 · Installing new park plug wires may seem mundane, but are critical to any build. All plug wires have microscopic holes in them and they can spark to ground if the wire is touching grounded metal causing a, "miss". All spark plugs should have the gap checked and we'll show you how. 5" "hole" surrounded by exhaust, head, block. Mar 16, 2025 · A spark plug wire is a critical component of a vehicle’s ignition system. Feb 23, 2024 · You know, if stock ignition wires are so troublesome, 90% of F355 would not be running because those wires are bundled squished together at the entrance to the head and then each wire is squished next to other wires and in between the aluminum channel (ground). Jan 13, 2008 · If you have a spark arcing from the plug wire to ground then this means the spark cannot jump the plug gap and has found an easier way to ground. This can lead to arcing, especially under high voltage, and may cause irregular spark delivery to cylinders. The plug boots also touch the primary tubes, there I am using Moroso Boot sleeves supposedly good till The routing of the spark plug wire from the coil to the spark plug can be important, and the wire may be supported by a clip or tie to keep it from touching other parts of the bike. Buy high-quality new wires right now.
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