C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

**Dan H.** · May 26, 2020, 02:53 PM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

Ed, my 64 NEVER ran totally smooth for 16 years with LL ign wires, 40-50K ohms on most of them, put on a set of Summit Racing spiral wound wires, totally smooth and much more power, radio is static free etc. I used the LL distributor 90 degree boots, bought a top notch crimper tool, will never go back. (64 FI car)
Dan

**Ed S.** · May 26, 2020, 03:42 PM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

Dan, thanks for the quick reply. Your experience with LL spark plug wires is consistent with what others have said - but, that was a long ago. If I read your response correctly, you purchased or installed the LL wires 16 years ago. I am curious if members have had more favorable "recent" experiences - wondering if LL has improved quality. Re the Summit spiral wound wires you installed, I assume they do not pass judging - or..... did you have a Packard..... stamp made so they look "correct". Thanks again.

**Dan H.** · May 26, 2020, 04:31 PM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

When I got the 64, it had LL wires, and a 'surge' at low speeds. Bought a second set, checked the ohms and made up the best set with them all. Still the surge, replaced the plugs last year and #5 was sooty, checked and the LL wire was toast. Gave up and put the Summit wires on, great. Guess you could ink stamp them and they'll do fine for judging.

**Mark E.** · May 26, 2020, 07:41 PM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

Dan,

I agree from a functional perspective, spiral wound wires (e.g. Spiro-Pro from Taylor) are the way to go. That's what I've been using for years... no cross-firing, no seen leakage, no radio interference. Did you find a set of 7mm spiral wires? All that I've seen are 8mm or larger.

Also, the Taylor's outer jacket is a silicone like material which does not look like vintage wires. So even if they were stamped it seems they still would not look original.

Ed,

If judging is a concern, then cutting and stamping Packard 440 wire may be a good choice. I've done that on several steel cars years ago with good result from a functional perspective. You might get some radio interference.

**Ed S.** · May 26, 2020, 07:46 PM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

It is becoming apparent to me that the best option (for me) might be # 14's tried and true solution, get a set of solid cores and get them stamped with the correct markings.

**Mike M.** · May 26, 2020, 10:00 PM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

ed: first off, I dont think Long Island Corvettes repo plug wire sets are made in their house. I'd guess they get them from lectric limited. here's what I've done for the last 30-40years. buy a set of electric limited wires, remove the boots and metal connectors, cut Packard 440 wiring to length, then use the lactic limits boots and connectors. I usually solder the steel core in the 440 wires to the connectors from electric limited. first set I made took couple days. its still a 4-6 hour job for my sorry old ass. mike

**Joe L.** · May 26, 2020, 10:30 PM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

Originally posted by Ed Szeliga (60294)

Looking for options for "correct" appearing (and performing) plug wires for a 64. Lot of "old" threads that touch on this issue - many comments state that LL wire sets are "fragile" and are prone to damage easily - but no recent opinions about their quality now. Just wondering if the product has improved. Along those lines, are there any other options? I see several of the larger vendors also carry the same Packard RTV (dated) wire sets but I suspect they are getting them from LL.

Comments and recommendations will be appreciated. BTW - I did see a number of recommendations to fabricate solid core wires and then have correct stamps made. That is plan B of my strategy.

Thanks again.

Ed------

What would I use? ACDelco #9508N aka GM #88862452. I'd "live with" the red spark plug end boots for a driven car.

**Dan H.** · May 26, 2020, 11:21 PM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

Mark, the Summit wires, SUM-G829B are 7mm, they work great,
Dan

**Frank D.** · May 27, 2020, 06:36 AM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

I have had no issue with the LL wires (running with my 3rd set), I can't say that they are fragile but I wonder if sometimes they don't get abused when working them through the motor mounts resulting in problems... I've had boogered up plug wires cause a miss or "breakdown" at high RPMs; can't say they've ever caused a "surge" though.

**Ed S.** · May 27, 2020, 06:41 AM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

Mike - thanks. I've read quite a few old posts in this issue and I have seen you describe that method before. I was hoping not to have to go that route but given the lack of favorable endorsements on LL carbon wires, recent or otherwise, I've decided to follow your lead (again). I have plenty of time, 4 to 6 hours is no big deal. Just hope I can find a stationary / stamp shop in Charlottesville that can replicate the correct markings. Thanks again.

**Tom M.** · May 27, 2020, 09:18 AM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

Ed, I'll be watching for an update on what you come up with for a stamp. I recall an article, maybe in the Restorer, of that approach. Until then, I got 25 years out of my C3 300hp LL wires and just installed a new set this week. The resistances are what would be expected from ressitance wire and were close to the old set. Quality of the new set was good. There were no surprises pro/con.

**Perry M.** · May 27, 2020, 10:28 AM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

Originally posted by Frank Dreano (48332)

I have had no issue with the LL wires (running with my 3rd set), I can't say that they are fragile but I wonder if sometimes they don't get abused when working them through the motor mounts resulting in problems... I've had boogered up plug wires cause a miss or "breakdown" at high RPMs; can't say they've ever caused a "surge" though.

Frank, if they are so good, why are you on your 3rd set? I've had 2 sets on two different vehicles and replaced them with Packard 440 wires. What an improvement.

**Ed S.** · May 27, 2020, 10:35 AM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

Don't hold your breath on an update - may be a few weeks or more but..... when I find and buy a stamp or stamps I will post an update with pics. This should not be that complicated..... famous last words!

**Stephen L.** · May 28, 2020, 05:55 PM

Re: C2 Spark Plug Wires - time for an update

Ed, you might be surprised at how difficult it can be, to stamp a round wire with a flat stamp..... with any clarity.
Good luck