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.

 

[Chris1956]

Will, Those spark plug wires are solid, stranded stainless steel. Spark will follow the path of least resistance, and the insulation breaks down after many years. Slice a piece of rubber hose the long way and wrap it around the wire to help insulate it, and go boating.