Dumb question regarding Accel sparkplug wires

[D-Day]

Well, wanting some newer/better wires before I put in new plugs, I picked up a box of Accel Super Stock Spiral Wire, and of course, some assembly is required.

There are two seperate bags (sets) of what seems to be HEI distributor boots, and the corresponding metal connectors to crimp on the end of the wire, then slide into the boot. I think I'll use 'bag 2', which seem to be the better fit. The instructions aren't detailed at all; quite vague.

So, am I gonna need a special crimper tool for this? I don't see why so much crap should be required to have a set of sparkplug wires. Euhh.

Any tips, tricks or somewhat related experience welcome. This is going on an Mallory HEI distributor, if it makes any difference.

[N2TRUX]

It should have come with a crimping tool. It's a little metal piece with a V in the top.

[D-Day]

I got that. So...what else do you use to facilitate this near-worthless little piece of metal? Tap it with a hammer?

[Pyrotechnic]

I think its meant to be used in a vice. The best way to crimp wires is with a purpose built spark plug wire crimper. Good tool to have if you like to do your own custom length wires but it's an extra few bucks you have to spend.

If you don't want to use the tool, plug wires are sold pre made sets for small block chevy's in a variety of configurations, such as under the headers, over the headers, etc.

[D-Day]

Yeah...I'll just pick up the tool when I go to the auto store. I have to pick up two sets of plugs (one for bike, one for truck) and a belt they had to order.

[burger]

I have used the MSD and Taylor tools. The MSD is clearly superior.

FWIW, those vice mounted tools can do an excellent job. I would use that before buying a cheap set of crimpers.

[D-Day]

Well, they didn't have the crimper tools. Crike me in the fark. I suppose I'll buy the damn MSD tool. Just gotta make it harder, don't they?

[Slonaker]

Autozone, at least here, has an inexpensive set of crimpers that are similar to the MSD ones. I bought a set, but have not ried them yet.

I have also seen pics of the metal ones that come with some of the wire sets tack welded to a pair of pliers. They were reported to work well.

Slonaker

[D-Day]

I bought a pair of these off eBay for $8.50:

Hopefully those'll do the job.

[Damien]

Originally Posted by D-Day

I bought a pair of these off eBay for $8.50:

Hopefully those'll do the job.

I bought a pair of pliers like the ones above at the local parts store for about $10.
In my opinion, Accel wires are junk. I had two sets on my blazer. I could open the hood at night and see one heck of a light show. I have taylor wires now.