Spark plug wire covering

  • ckahleer
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Spark plug wire covering

08 Apr 2025 13:27
#911112
I replaced the plug wires on my zl600 with 7mm copper core automotive spark plug wire. The origional wires were 7mm with an additional rubber covering. I tried to remove the covering to put it on the new wires, but was unable to get it off. I believe most motorcycle plug wires have this covering. Where can I get this covering, and is it necessary?
 
1997 ZL600
94 KE100
82 KZ305
85 VF1100c

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  • Nessism
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Re: Spark plug wire covering

08 Apr 2025 13:46
#911114
I was able to remove the outer covering by squirting some WD-40 between the outer cover and the HT lead.  You may want to push a piece of stiff wire between the two layers, before shooting the spray.  Then move the wire, and shoot again.  

[img
P1010602 by nessism , on Flickr
Ed
Carb O-ring Kits : www.kzrider.com/forum/3-carburetor/61807...-o-ring-kits?start=0

www.kzrider.com/forum/faq-wiki/618026-new-owner-things-to-know

1981 KZ750E2
www.kzrider.com/forum/11-projects/604901...z750e-project-thread

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  • Scirocco
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Re: Spark plug wire covering

08 Apr 2025 14:34
#911117
Some coil rubber cover are glued and need some "force" to loosen them.
New spark plug wires should come with new rubber covers. Automotive supplierer should have covers in stock.....
My 1975 Z 1 B 900 Project

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  • Injected
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Re: Spark plug wire covering

10 Apr 2025 19:07
#911206
Personally I don't think that covering is necessary, but if it makes you feel better you can always just use some electrical heat shrink over the wires to give them some extra protection.

I have been using V8 automotive wire sets for years on bike engines with no ill effects. The V8 wires are cheaper to buy and if they are not the correct length (most are not) I just cut and re-crimp the ends to suit.
1978 KZ650B2 w 1197cc Z1 engine
1977 KZ650B1 w 750cc Spectre engine
1979 KZ650C3 w 831cc Hot Rod engine
1978 KZ650C2 w 762cc DFI project
1977 KZ650C1 stock restoration project
1978 KZ650B2 modified project
1978 KZ650B2 Injected Drag 831cc
1980 Z1 Custom Frame Drag 1327cc
1981 Z50R Honda tow bike

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  • Nessism
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Re: Spark plug wire covering

10 Apr 2025 19:57 - 10 Apr 2025 19:58
#911210
Injected wrote:
Personally I don't think that covering is necessary, but if it makes you feel better you can always just use some electrical heat shrink over the wires to give them some extra protection.

I have been using V8 automotive wire sets for years on bike engines with no ill effects. The V8 wires are cheaper to buy and if they are not the correct length (most are not) I just cut and re-crimp the ends to suit.

The covering will reduce of the chance of arcing as the wires age.  Doubt it will be an issue for many years, but why not?  There is a reason that vehicles using HT leads keep them separated from one another, and arrange them so they don't ground or cross each other.
Ed
Carb O-ring Kits : www.kzrider.com/forum/3-carburetor/61807...-o-ring-kits?start=0

www.kzrider.com/forum/faq-wiki/618026-new-owner-things-to-know

1981 KZ750E2
www.kzrider.com/forum/11-projects/604901...z750e-project-thread
Last edit: 10 Apr 2025 19:58 by Nessism.

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