plug wires

scoflaw

Ensign
Joined
Jun 2, 2010
Messages
962
Are merc wires worth the 100 bucks? Or should I head to auto Zone. Noticed I've got a firestorm accross the top of my cap.
 

erikgreen

Captain
Joined
Jan 8, 2007
Messages
3,105
Re: plug wires

You won't notice a difference except in looks between Merc and a similar quality set of wires for a car.

Of course, then your boat won't be "all Mercruiser", so if that bothers you...

Erik
 

TyeeMan

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Feb 27, 2006
Messages
849
Re: plug wires

A couple years ago I picked up a set from West Marine, they seemed like a quality product, I think they were only $20.00 for a 4 cyl. Not sure if there is a difference between marine and automotive wires. If you haven't replaced your cap and rotor lately I would replace them to right away, , the cap and rotor I would highly recomend using OEM stuff. I know from experience that there is a difference in quality.
 

JustJason

Vice Admiral
Joined
Aug 27, 2007
Messages
5,321
Re: plug wires

lug wires are plug wires. The problem with getting non-marine application ones at an auto parts store is 2 fold

1. They aren't long enough to clear the exhaust manifolds. So a set for any old chevy V8 usually does not fit a Mercruiser V8. 6 out of 8 may fit, but the last 2, (the 2 longest ones) are to short.

2. The cap to coil connection wire is usally different because Marine distro's and coils are different than their automotive counterparts.
 

sethjon

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jun 8, 2010
Messages
692
Re: plug wires

Are merc wires worth the 100 bucks? Or should I head to auto Zone. Noticed I've got a firestorm accross the top of my cap.

Car wires will work fine but make sure the lengths are enough.
 

bigdan1

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Aug 9, 2010
Messages
95
Re: plug wires

merc plug wires at $100.00 they surely buy them from a wholesaler ....

buy car plug wires , they will be up to par !
 

erikgreen

Captain
Joined
Jan 8, 2007
Messages
3,105
Re: plug wires

The only problem I had with the last set of wires I bought (for $25) for my Mercruiser V8 was that they were too long and didn't look neat...
 

wire2

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Jun 25, 2007
Messages
1,584
Re: plug wires

The simple way to ensure you get the correct length is measure the existing ones, take the numbers to the store and measure new ones. It's a crap shoot to get them the fit perfectly.

It's a good idea to put a film of dielectric or synthetic grease inside all the boots. It keeps them waterproof longer, and makes pulling them off the plugs much easier in 2 year's time. (1 hand, instead of 2)
 

Todd157k

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jul 12, 2010
Messages
114
Re: plug wires

I think the Accel wires come extra long and you install the ends.
 
Top