Spark Plug Boot

Simple_Man

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Sep 11, 2013
Messages
267
Is it possible to replace the spark plug boot and connection, as I am having an intermitant issue due to a loose connection at the plug. 1988 force 85HP.
 

Jcris

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Apr 23, 2016
Messages
466
If you can pull the boot back, take a closer look. Get a needle nose pliers and pinch the connector closed a bit more. If that doesn't do it then you may want to just replace the wire or the entire set
 

pnwboat

Rear Admiral
Joined
Oct 8, 2007
Messages
4,251
If you have the Prestolite ignition system with the Blue coils and CD Modules, you can replace the spark plug boot. I found some aftermarket silicone boots on-line for 7mm wires years ago. A lot of the after market spark plug boots are for 8mm and larger wires so you have to make sure you get the ones for 7mm otherwise the boot doesn't fit tightly around the wire.

The original factory metal connector on the end of the wire (and the wire itself) are stainless steel. It just pierces the insulation through to the wire inside. Unless it's physically damaged or bent out of shape, they usually are OK. Maybe just clean up with some WD-40 and a small wire brush. If some previous owner has replaced the OEM connector with a crimp on type, then make sure you get a stainless steel replacement. The standard steel ones will rust out in no time.

The wires themselves are part of the coil and are not replaceable. Many folks have tried to replace them and ended up ruining the wire/coil.
 

Jiggz

Captain
Joined
Oct 23, 2009
Messages
3,909
As PNW mentioned, if you have the Prestolite system, the plug wire or cable is non-replaceable. From personal experience I did have some spark leak on the boot itself. The boots are replaceable but need to make sure you have the right size. The 8mm is doable but you will need to seal it with silicone to make it tight on the wire/cable.
 

Simple_Man

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Sep 11, 2013
Messages
267
Thanks All I think I will try to clean them, and look for replacements next winter.
 

jerryjerry05

Supreme Mariner
Joined
May 7, 2008
Messages
18,071
I had trouble with the boot sliding off.
I used a 1" piece of a wire tie.
​I slipped it in the boot and put the boot on and it stopped coming off.
 

Simple_Man

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Sep 11, 2013
Messages
267
Jerry

That sounds like a great idea. Just enough to keep the connection tight. gonna give that a try.
 
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