Need advice on plugs and wires... QUICK!

[Dante04SRT]

I was hoping to get some lake time this weekend (tomorrow actually) and I thought I'd pull my plugs to see how they looked.

First thing, my wires are TOAST. Probably the 1987 original Mercruiser brand ones. They literally crumbled in my hands when I pulled the boot. Can anyone tell me where to find a set cheap and fast??? Is this something most boat shops will have? Can I use an automotive style if I had to?

Also, the plugs were barely in there. 2 of them unthreaded by hand!! They look pretty hold and nasty too. They were AC Delco MR43Ts. Should I replace these with the same ones or get a different style? Also, is there anything else needed with marine plugs or are they just like cars?

Any help would be appreciated as I am hoping to get on the water tomorrow!!

 

[licketdsplit756]

Re: Need advice on plugs and wires... QUICK!

i went to auto zone and bought each wire individualy was 4.95 each but was a quick fix andf yes they will work

 

[thumpar]

Re: Need advice on plugs and wires... QUICK!

If you have a local NAPA take the old stuff down there and they may be able to get you going. NAPA is the only auto parts store I know of that carries marine parts.

 

[f_inscreenname]

Re: Need advice on plugs and wires... QUICK!

Good set of 8mm wires are a good set of wires (car or boat). I am sure you can find a set of Acell's universal fit. You have to cut the wires to size and put the ends on but thats easy enough.
As for plugs, just need the right heat range plugs and you will be fine.

 

[Coors]

Re: Need advice on plugs and wires... QUICK!

Auto wires will work; but those 2 loose plugs.. gases will cut a trench through the cast iron, check those 2 plugs after installing for leaks.

 

[Dante04SRT]

Re: Need advice on plugs and wires... QUICK!

Thanks for the info, AdvanceAuto has my plugs and I'll have to try Napa in the morning.

As for the loose plugs, the plug threads themselves looked great, just old and black. I'm hoping their ok.

Could VERY weak spark cause a pinging or semi-knocking sound at all?

 

[Dante04SRT]

Re: Need advice on plugs and wires... QUICK!

Replaced the plugs, but didn't have $$ for the rest this past weekend. NEXT weekend tho!!!

Anyway, I need to replace the plug wires and I've seen Napa/Sierra P/N 18-8800 for the Merc 3.0 spark plug wires. Can anyone confirm this? I don't have time during the week to get them and want to make sure that these will be the right ones before the weekend.

THANKS!

 

[Bondo]

Re: Need advice on plugs and wires... QUICK!

I've seen Napa/Sierra P/N 18-8800 for the Merc 3.0 spark plug wires.

Ayuh,.........

My book says they fit the GM I-4s up to the Electronic Ign. in the mid-90s........

 

[Dante04SRT]

Re: Need advice on plugs and wires... QUICK!

Just wanted to confirm with everyone, the 18-8800 kit from Sierra @ NAPA does work on the Merc I4s... I can confirm on the 3.0, but I would assume on the others too.

$35.99 @ NAPA - 8mm

 

[Speakrdude1]

Re: Need advice on plugs and wires... QUICK!

By-the-way, That pinging or knocking was more-than-likely those loose plugs. Been there, Done that.

Jim

 

[Dante04SRT]

Re: Need advice on plugs and wires... QUICK!

By-the-way, That pinging or knocking was more-than-likely those loose plugs. Been there, Done that.

Jim

Let's hope - Hopefully gonna test it this weekend!