Spark Plug Wires

[lakemeadzmonster]

Whats the preferred spark plug wire replacement? Thanks Joel

[VetteMed]

Stock wires are considered to be fine, both in performance and appearance. I don't think there's much to be gained with a change to aftermarket.

[lakemeadzmonster]

Who has a good price for a set?

[VetteMed]

If you are looking for exact original (with the LT5 printing and cylinder number printing on each wire), those will set you back bigtime, $300+. There's a few members here with sets for sale. Otherwise, the ACDelco service replacements are what most of us run. They are red with black boots just like original, but lack the LT5 lettering. Figure $50-60 if I recall.

[AT T 2D]

Is it true that you need to remove the plenum to change the wires? I am thinking about replacing mine to preserve the originals, but I have heard that pulling the plenum is not for the faint hearted.

[QB93Z]

Yes you have to pull the plenum to replace the spark plug wires.

Pulling the plenum is well within the capabilities of a reasonable shade tree mechanic. If you have some experience working with tools and electrical connections, you should be able to pull the plenum.

Here are some suggestions:

Marc Haibeck sells a good DVD that describes the procedure to pull a plenum.

Jerry's Gaskets will sell you the plenum gaskets you need.

You have to be able to drain some (about 2 quarts) coolant and refill the system.

You need to have some basic tools such as torx bit drivers, screwdrivers, pliers, a socket set.

It helps a lot to have an assistant.

You have to be methodical in your work. Keep track of everything you take apart so that you get it all back together.

There is a lot of help available here on the Forum if you need it.

Are there any other ZR-1 owners in your area? The first plenum pull that we did in the Northern Virginia area (WAZOO) was a group project and was one of the starting events of our group. Try getting in touch with some other guys and pool your talent.

Jim

[AT T 2D]

Originally Posted by QB93Z

Yes you have to pull the plenum to replace the spark plug wires.

Pulling the plenum is well within the capabilities of a reasonable shade tree mechanic. If you have some experience working with tools and electrical connections, you should be able to pull the plenum.

Here are some suggestions:

Marc Haibeck sells a good DVD that describes the procedure to pull a plenum.

Jerry's Gaskets will sell you the plenum gaskets you need.

You have to be able to drain some (about 2 quarts) coolant and refill the system.

You need to have some basic tools such as torx bit drivers, screwdrivers, pliers, a socket set.

It helps a lot to have an assistant.

You have to be methodical in your work. Keep track of everything you take apart so that you get it all back together.

There is a lot of help available here on the Forum if you need it.

Are there any other ZR-1 owners in your area? The first plenum pull that we did in the Northern Virginia area (WAZOO) was a group project and was one of the starting events of our group. Try getting in touch with some other guys and pool your talent.

Jim

Thanks for all of the great information.

[sammy]

msd also makes a plug wire set for our cars . they might be a little more heat resistant then the gm wires . you can get them from summit ,for i believe 79 .just giving you another option

[Jim Nolan]

It's not all that hard and a good opportunity to check under the plenum for any loose items and leaks. You will need new gaskets and coolant. Jerry's is a good source for the gaskets. It is a good idea to get a service manual if you intend to keep the car for a while.