Replacing spark plug wires 70 1150, will auto plug wires work?

[hoosiercaver1]

Hi my plug wires were original kiekhafer plug wires and they were pretty cracked and rotted. My neighbor gave me a set of plug wires from a Chevy hei ignition. I wondered if they would work if I got some threaded ends to crimp on or of I need outboard specific plug wires. I was having trouble starting motor when hot so I want to rule out ignition as a problem. Runs great cold till I shut it down and it sits for 30 min to an hour.

 

[Wingedwheel]

Re: Replacing spark plug wires 70 1150, will auto plug wires work?

Those won't work as they are a resistor core. You need to use a wire with a zero resistance conductor. If you have to make a set you can generally buy lengths of wire from your local lawn-mower shop.

 

[hoosiercaver1]

Re: Replacing spark plug wires 70 1150, will auto plug wires work?

Ok thanks for the heads up I wanted to check before I wasted a set of threaded ends on them. Just so I know could u explain why they r different. I understand the concept of less resistance, but I don't get why a auto plug wouldn't need a zero resistance wire too.

 

[Wingedwheel]

Re: Replacing spark plug wires 70 1150, will auto plug wires work?

I think it has something to do with the radio interference they caused back in the good ol' days. I don't know if that still applies with today's electronics, but that's why they do it.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Replacing spark plug wires 70 1150, will auto plug wires work?

The original Merc wires were stranded stainless steel. Automotive wires are radio-suppressive, and made of some powder conductor. They are unsuitable for outboard use. Try Vintage Mercs dot com for your new plug wires. They had a good price...

 

[hoosiercaver1]

Re: Replacing spark plug wires 70 1150, will auto plug wires work?

Ok, I found a Sierra kit 18-5225 that comes with marine grade copper core wire, the screw in crimp ends and coil and 90? spark plug connectors. I gave it ordered and it should be here this week.