>On Wed, 13 Dec 1995, A.D.Smith wrote:
>
>> Just one question really : what is the expected lifetime of plug leads ?
>> Number one plug lead seemed to be grubby and a bit rusty in the end where
it goes
>> over the plug head. This might mean that the rest of the lead is getting
past
>> it's best, might it ?
>
The efficiency of a plug or coil lead is easily checked using a multimeter.
Most cars use silicon leads these days in the interests of avoiding radio
interference.
Using the resistance setting on a multimeter the maximum resistance should
be 8 OHMS per foot of cable. If it is more than that then replace them. If
you have copper leads the resistance should be zero.
Be careful to check from the fathest end of the leads. In other words go
from inside the distributor cap to the spark plug end (including the slip on
cap). If you get a high reading and you have those screw-in ends at the
distributor end then check out that there is no bad connection within those
crazy fittings.
It is often worth starting the engine in very dark conditions, open the
bonnet and see if there is arcing in the high tension circuits. There
probably will be, espcially if the local air is highly charged with salt,
such as beachside. It is worth tracking the arcing down and eliminate it as
far as possible.
Regards,
Graham McCann Rivett, ACT. Australia
gmccann@pcug.org.au
06 2889055
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