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Making ignition leads
Posted: Sun Oct 06, 2013 8:46 pm
by M25VAN
I have two spark plug caps that have badly rusted connectors and I want to replace them with a new set of leads as I am starting to get misfires. If I make them up what will I need? Suppressed cable and unsuppressed caps or unsuppressed leads and suppressed caps? Is standard copper ignition cable OK or go for the silicone carbon core type of cable. I have electronic ignition and will use a screw in side entry cap and screw on plug caps as I don't have the correct crimping tool.
Thanks
Re: Making ignition leads
Posted: Sun Oct 06, 2013 8:50 pm
by bmcecosse
Go with wire core HT cable - it's MUCH better. Suppressed caps if you will - but modern equipment is so well protected these days, I doubt it's necessary. beware the resistance cable + resistance caps + resistant plugs = non start.......

Re: Making ignition leads
Posted: Sun Oct 06, 2013 9:40 pm
by M25VAN
Thanks BMC, I had a feeling you may have said 'use standard stuff'

. I'll get some bits ordered in.
Re: Making ignition leads
Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 9:54 am
by catswhisker
Yes,copper core cable IS much better than carbon string stuff.
I made up a new set to go with the nice Champion plug caps I had aquired.
Couldn't believe the difference, better starting ,smoother running,very good.
Re: Making ignition leads
Posted: Tue Oct 08, 2013 12:12 pm
by M25VAN
Yes, I swapped out two leads that had rusted connections and everything was smoother as expected but even more so up hill etc. Always had a problem with the clips onto the plugs becoming loose and the screw connector on the plug likewise. Caps that I've bought I think fit onto the plug threaded top so will hopefully be better....
Re: Making ignition leads
Posted: Wed Oct 09, 2013 11:37 pm
by JOWETTJAVELIN
+1 for copper HT leads. They last forever, whereas the silicone breaks down over time. I still have a 30-odd year old set of Champion leads, with Ripaults Suppression cable (sadly now defunct) giving excellent service.
Re: Making ignition leads
Posted: Thu Oct 17, 2013 8:43 pm
by M25VAN
+1 for copper leads from me too.

No more bites from the leads when I go near them. They also sit better as the silicone ones were very floppy and tended to rest and rub against things. I also have some spare lead now and can make/repair a spare lead or two if required.