spark plug wire diameter question

[mauibronco]

hey guys..

i need some new spark plug wires ....i have a 302, electronic ignition (mallory i think) and the wires on there currently are 8mm....im thinking about running the msd 8.5....is this compatible? is 8.5 better than 8mm...does it make a difference?
mahalo!!

 

[pcf_mark]

All modern wires are the same and will function on any other ignition. The two biggest differences you may get with aftermarket wires is better boots and better insulation. The 8.5 mm is the thickness of the external wire so it represents the increased thickness of the insulation. If you have a flame thrower of an ignition you need more insulation and better boots. Downside to heavier wires is your wire looms may not hold them and the boots can get so big they get burnt by the headers.

For a Mallory you could use anything - parts stores even sell some decent quality sets but you need to ask for the higher quality sets. I bought aftermarket Explorer set for EDIS and it was really nice and still on there 5 years later.

 

[SteveL]

Alot of us are just running the Ford motorsport wires. Comparing plug wire prices they're fairly cheap.

 

[bronkenn]

Check out the Edelbrock 8.5mm wires at Jeg's. Comparible with MSD and made in the U.S. About 70 bucks I think.

 

[rmk57]

I ran MSD street fire 8mm wires on another project and they started leaking / misfiring after a year. Switch over to Ford Racing 9mm wires and it hasnt missed a beat in 2 years. Good value and quality wires.

 

[DirtDonk]

This info is from years past, but the Ford Motorsport/Racing wires have an excellent reputation among forum members all over the place.
Never heard a bad report that I can remember.

Assume they're still available, but you'd have to check.

Paul

 

[69_Sport]

+1 on the Ford Racing plug wire sets.

I like to use the generic set with pre-made ends on only the spark plug end. The distributor ends are loose and this allows you to custom fit the wire lengths to your specific engine. Simple to do with an inexpensive set of crimping pliers. The pre-made sets never seem to fit just right for me.

 

[mauibronco]

right on...thank you so much for all the info you guys! you'd think after owning broncos for over 25 years id know al little more shit by now...lol

big mahalo guys......im gonna check out the ford wires 1st!