1969 lower spark plug heat shields

[William S.]

I've got a 1969 350/300. I want to change the spark plug wires but want to verify how the lower heat shield comes off on the passenger side. It appears that I need to take the starter off to get to the rear bolt and the front bolts through the motor mount. The driver side looks easy but the passenger side looks like it's going to be a lot of trouble.

[Mike F.]

Re: 1969 lower spark plug heat shields

You don't need to remove the "boomerang" shields to replace the spark plug wires.

Here's an example of what I did, disconnected the #2 spark plug wire from the distributor and the spark plug. I then attached/tied a piece of wire (about 6' ft long) to the distributor end of the spark plug wire, I then pulled the #2 spark plug wire out through the engine mount, pulling from the spark plug end, the wire that I attached followed it's path, I then disconnected the old #2 plug wire, attached the new #2 plug wire and pulled the wire I attached back towards the distributor. Tah-day!!!!

It doesn't pull in and out like magic, but it allows you to pull the plug wire through the tight spots. You'll still need to get under the car and fiddle a bit, but there's enough room under the car, between the boomerang shield and the block to stick your fingers in and fiddle with final alignment, etc..

I also applied tape over where I attached the feeder wire to the spark plug wire, so that there was a smooth transmission. You don't want the distributor end of the plug wire catching on anything as you pull it through.

[Jeffrey S.]

Re: 1969 lower spark plug heat shields

Mike has the right suggestion to get the wire through without removing the lower shield but I can add another suggestion. I always remove the engine mount attachment and the screw on the engine and pull the shield away as far as possible so I can be sure that the wire is not in the clip that is bolted to the oil pan. Next, I remove the boot from the distributor end of the old and new wire. This is easily done and easy to replace. Then it becomes just like snaking house wiring. Just a thought and this always works or me.
Jeff

[William S.]

Re: 1969 lower spark plug heat shields

I wondered about something like that. Great suggestion. Thanks very much.

[Mark E.]

Re: 1969 lower spark plug heat shields

Yet another example of why big blocks are easier to service.