Spark Plug Wire Corrosion
02-14-2010, 10:30 AM
#1
Three Wheelin'
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Spark Plug Wire Corrosion
As part of the timing belt ("TB") service check, I pulled the plugs and distributor cap to get to the TB. I as I removed, I noticed that the #8 wire was not pushed all the way down, and upon inspection there appeared to be some white / green corrosion on the wire tip and in the receiving distributor receiving end. It was bad enough that I have my doubts that the #8 cylinder even had a spark - even thought the car seems to have been running well.
What are your thoughts on dealing with this? My preference would be for a clean up (over parts change) until I tackle a much more in depth engine service in the fall of this year.
Thanks,
Dave
What are your thoughts on dealing with this? My preference would be for a clean up (over parts change) until I tackle a much more in depth engine service in the fall of this year.
Thanks,
Dave
02-14-2010, 10:37 AM
#2
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Clean it. If there is a tiny gap in a secondary ignition connection, the heat of the jumping spark causes corrosion. You were still getting a spark thru, and it will work fine after a good cleaning. (You can actually buy small round brass brushes designed to clean the female connector.)
Clean it. If there is a tiny gap in a secondary ignition connection, the heat of the jumping spark causes corrosion. You were still getting a spark thru, and it will work fine after a good cleaning. (You can actually buy small round brass brushes designed to clean the female connector.)
10-13-2020, 12:18 PM
#3
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I drove to Tahoe (200+ miles) last week and the car was slightly hesitating under load. Got great gas mileage though. On my way back from Tahoe to the Bay Area, the cars started running really rough and no power when I stepped on it. I limped it home (I thought about getting AAA to tow me home but it ran so I decided to just keep driving) but it went from 19MPG to about 8-9MPG as I had to refuel many times. I finally had some time yesterday to check on the wires and I found one wire at the passenger side distributor had completely broke off the tip from corrosion which I hope is the cause of the lack of power. Ordered new wires and hope that fixes the problem I experienced. Fingers crossed.
10-13-2020, 03:14 PM
#4
Chronic Tool Dropper
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I drove to Tahoe (200+ miles) last week and the car was slightly hesitating under load. Got great gas mileage though. On my way back from Tahoe to the Bay Area, the cars started running really rough and no power when I stepped on it. I limped it home (I thought about getting AAA to tow me home but it ran so I decided to just keep driving) but it went from 19MPG to about 8-9MPG as I had to refuel many times. I finally had some time yesterday to check on the wires and I found one wire at the passenger side distributor had completely broke off the tip from corrosion which I hope is the cause of the lack of power. Ordered new wires and hope that fixes the problem I experienced. Fingers crossed.
10-14-2020, 01:38 AM
#5
I had a major problem this board did a magnificent job of helping me overcome and get home from CA on my first long drive. It was a corroded wire problem. Sean then built and installed a new harness for me and the result was amazing! The car performed so much better in so many ways! Probably the best investment I have made in this car since buying it!
Brad
Brad
