What function do spark plug cables ignition cables do?
Spark plug wires (also referred to as ignition wiring) transfer the spark from the distributor or ignition coil to the plugs. The subsequent spark ignites the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber of your engine.
What causes a spark plug wire to burn?
This causes an increase in the voltage required to fire the spark plug, which could damage the ignition coil as well as the spark plug wires. Heat damage – Engine heat can burn wire insulation and boots. A damaged boot can impede proper spark plug wire seating and performance.
Why do I need to replace my spark plug wire?
The following situations call for immediate replacement of spark plug wires: Vibration damage – Constant wear and tear caused by engine vibration can loosen the electrical connection at the spark plug. This causes an increase in the voltage required to fire the spark plug, which could damage the ignition coil as well as the spark plug wires.
What causes a spark plug to jump to the ground?
Heat damage – Engine heat can burn wire insulation and boots. A damaged boot can impede proper spark plug wire seating and performance. Wire insulation that’s damaged by head can allow voltage to jump to the ground rather than jumping the gap at the bottom of the spark plug.
How can you tell if a spark plug wire is bad?
In addition, the engine light coming on or visible damange to the cables can be signs of a failing wire. Be sure to first check spark plug wires for visual damage. Look for any signs of melting or cracking. The following situations call for immediate replacement of spark plug wires:
What are the spark plug wires all about?
What is the Ignition Cable (Spark plug wires) all about? The ignition cables, also known as “spark plug wires” are part of the ignition system. They transfer the spark from the distributor or ignition coil to spark plugs that ignite the air-fuel mixture, starting the engine. Over time, the cables can get weak and break down.
Where are the spark plugs on a dis car?
On vehicles with waste-spark DIS, one ignition coil pack will fire two spark plugs. Today the most common DIS ignition system is the coil-on-plug (COP) ignition system. Each cylinder has a dedicated ignition coil for each spark plug; most often with the ignition coil sitting directly above the spark plug.
What are the symptoms of bad spark plug wires?
This is necessary due to the aging of the spark plug wires from exposure to extreme temperatures (hot and cold), engine chemicals (oil, grease, coolant, etc.) and electrical stresses. Common signs of failing spark plug wires include a decrease in power, acceleration, and fuel efficiency.
How is high voltage transferred to spark plugs?
This high voltage is transferred through the ignition cables, and to the spark plug, where a spark is created that ignites the engine’s fuel, and powers the engine. When one or more ignition cables fail, this voltage will not be transferred from the ignition coil to the spark plugs, and the fuel will not be ignited.