Plug Wires, Heat & Headers

I got the fuel tank and lines pulled and the headers in place and held on to check everything. One thing that I thought I needed, but now I am not sure. I bought those thermo plug boots (for $50) to make sure my new Hooker Ceramic coated headers would not toast the wires. However, after putting everything on, I have gobbs of room between the wires and the headers. Its much better than I had expected.

For those of you who are running headers, are you running thermo boots? Do I need them? The closesest plug boot is a good half inch from the header pipe.

Thoughts?

[billybob]

For my header installation I'm taking the path of new plug sheilds uppers, but never considered specially formulated plug wires.

In the 75 they run down and under and assuming you have the lower shields (I do) in addition to the uppers that doesnt leave much wire exposed.

Just a thought.

Bill

I already pulled the shields. What I am talking about is a mesh thermo sleeve that slips over the plug boot and plug. They are available from Summit for around $50. The local Corvette shop uses them when they install headers (probably a clue here), they just do not seem that necessary.

[Tim73454]

Hijinx, just got mine back with new headers. They are not coated but they are wrapped. I have the MSD wires and boots on mine with nothing else. I can take pics if you want of you can take a short drive south and see for yourself. You can also look at my MSD install and see where they mounted everything if you want to take a look.


Tim73454

Tim,
That would be great! I would love to see your Vette and how you mounted the MSD, since I am doing that right now too (you probably already knew that). Anyhow, when would be a good time? Or, if you are handy to Dallas any this week (other than Tuesday night), your welcome to come by my place. Either way is fine by me.

How long have you had the headers on? Long enough to know if you are going to get any melting on the plug boots?

[Tim73454]

I work at home so anytime is good with me. Just let me know and I will get you directions.

I have only put about 400 miles on mine since I got it back but the 454 puts off so much heat I think the would have melted by now if they are going to!!!!

It will heat my garage for about 5 hours when hot!!!!


Tim73454

Tim, sounds good. I'll get back to you on a good time. Your not that far from my office. I'll email you sometime tomorrow.

The headers I bought are REALLY close to the boot.

I have already burned two wires BUT my headers are not coated either. With the coating you arlready have some added protection and some good looking headers to

just my .02

Frank

[DDLS1]

Hijinx,

I have headers on my 81, I wraped them about a year and a half ago. I run the high temp silicone Accel wires with no boots, in the original metal shields from underneath. No sign of scorching anywhere, even driving from Maine to Kentucky last year.

[rgtrough]

Hey Hijinx, I put Dynomax ceramic coated headers on my 74 and I now have plenty of room. I see no need to spend that $50 on the boots.
Bud

[Tim73454]

Hijinx, not sure if I have updated my email address. It has changed. Use my new one. twademc2000@yahoo.com

Talk to you soon.

Tim73454