Spark Plug Wire/Header Issues

[72step]

I recently installed a set of Hedman headers with an exhaust which is an improvement from my last exhaust but with the Hedmans it seems almost immpossible for the plug wires #5 and #6 to not touch the header piping. I'd appreciate any advice to get around this minor hurdle. The new flowmaster exhaust with H-Pipe sounds downright mean! I had some hooker headers which were better as far as the wires but these hedmans are the ball type collector which doesn't require a collecter gasket and they don't leak! Thanks!

[hotrod 80]

I have the cheaper headman long tubes and the #1 tube comes back rightr up against the #3 plug . It already burned one end up . I put a junk plug in it , heated the tube , and used a deep socket to demple the header tube . I also bought a pair of the DEI flexible heat sheilds for the plug end . Makes me want a nice set of manifolds.

[72step]

Originally Posted by hotrod 80

I have the cheaper headman long tubes and the #1 tube comes back rightr up against the #3 plug . It already burned one end up . I put a junk plug in it , heated the tube , and used a deep socket to demple the header tube . I also bought a pair of the DEI flexible heat sheilds for the plug end . Makes me want a nice set of manifolds.

For me the problem is the space between the #5 and #7 is very tight. I might try the woven fiberglass boots for the plug end. For me manifolds aren't an option because the engine is built pretty stout. I could consider some other headers, but I really like the ball type collector mount. I also like the way it sounds just the way it is.

[big_al_71]

I had a similar problem with my headers and the guys here recommended Accel Shorty Plugs and problem solved...

[72step]

Has anyone used the Moroso or Jegs brand Spark Plug boot guards?? I'd like some feedback before I drop 50 bucks on a set. They are 6" long and I think are just right to protect the wire right where it touches the tube.

[72step]

Originally Posted by big_al_71

I had a similar problem with my headers and the guys here recommended Accel Shorty Plugs and problem solved...

I have those plugs. Matter of fact I just installed them as part of this tuneup I just gave the truck. New plug wires too and the darn header discolored the plug wire a bit where it was touching. Not too bad I only ran it a mile. How do you have your plug wires routed?

[big_al_71]

Originally Posted by 72step

I have those plugs. Matter of fact I just installed them as part of this tuneup I just gave the truck. New plug wires too and the darn header discolored the plug wire a bit where it was touching. Not too bad I only ran it a mile. How do you have your plug wires routed?

Here is a pict i have in my office computer hope it helps if not I could take one tonight when I get home.

[72step]

Wow, that's some setup you got there! Nice! I see where your problem got solved by the short plugs. My problem is not the actual plug wire boot, but the actual wire going between the header tubes. I need to get under there and play around with it to see if I can find a better way to route them. My wires are supposed to be under header wires so maybe I can tuck the one wire somehow closer to the block. I'll have to see. There's so many possible problems one can run into with headers and wires.

[El Jay]

Mine's not pretty like Al's, but here is how I routed my plug wires. I'm also running Accel shorty plugs.
There's a couple of plugs that I have to get from underneath the truck with a combination wrench. Since I figured that out, changing plugs is no longer a problem.

[Musclerodz]

Pay the money and get aset of Taylor wires. I have had them rest on headers and not melt them

[americanmusc1e]

I'm running flowtech headers and summit racing 8mm wire without shorty plugs and I've never had a problem

[kamikazekyle05]

I have some of those woven boot guards. It helps, but it wont solve your problem. I have the same problem with the number 5 plug.

[special-K]

Here`s my`72 with Headman Torque-steps,AC plugs,and right angles over the top.I have problems everytime I run them under.I put the headers and wires on in`04 and haven`t had a problem.I swear by Taylors,but these I just grabbed at Napa.

[70GMCer]

First of all, Hedmans are the worst headers ever made. IMO. Especially with all the room that these trucks have under the hood. Anyway, here's how I took care of my burnt wires & it's a cheap fix.

I used "Spectra" header insulation boots for plugs #5 & #6. I used Summit 8mm plug wire universal set. I used "Spectra" rubber wire separators, & then used regular wire ties to hold the wires away from all the tubes. The ties are connected to the valve cover hold downs.

This might not be "Bling" quality, but it works for me. Haven't had any problems since.

You can get the Spectra things from Advanced Auto or AutoZone, etc.

[kamikazekyle05]

^^^Thats what i did

[72step]

Well, I got under the hood and got creative with a few zip ties and re-routed the wires and ended up with something like 70 GMCer has and that completely eliminated the need for the boot protectors being that I have the shorty plugs. What I'd like to get is a setup like El Jay has and give it the neat look. Where did you get that setup El Jay-what brand? Thanks

[El Jay]

Originally Posted by 72step

Well, I got under the hood and got creative with a few zip ties and re-routed the wires and ended up with something like 70 GMCer has and that completely eliminated the need for the boot protectors being that I have the shorty plugs. What I'd like to get is a setup like El Jay has and give it the neat look. Where did you get that setup El Jay-what brand? Thanks

I got those from my friends at Summit Racing.

[67chevemall]

Mine has a big pita with #6 I have to take the header off to put it on and it just clears the header. I have the MDS red wires and they won't melt.

There was a pic on here of a very crafty guy who uses just wire ties to clean up all the wires. It looks sweet and NO wires touch each other or any steel..which is the way to go. I wish I could find the pic.....