Bad Spark Plug Wire Question

[Will Liston]

Hey folks, Quick question.... I have a 1980 Mercury 80HP 4cyl. I am looking to take my boat out on the water today but last night when I was tinkering with her I noticed a little arc coming intermittently off the #3 boot/wire to the block... I ordered 4x new wires today but they won't be here till Saturday. I'm not sure how long the problem has been there or if it is recent. But my question is this... Can I take I take it out today or do I run the risk or hurting more expensive ignition parts? (Switchbox, coils, etc) P.s. I put electrical tape on all the wires/boots and I'm showing spark at all 4 cylinders with a timing gun so it's not completely severed.

 

[merc150]

I think you will be fine! Ive done that before

 

[enginepower]

Just make sure you wrap that electrical tape at least 10 wraps thick until you get your new parts. I have seen spark jump through just a couple wraps of tape.