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Spark plug wires

PostPosted: Sun Aug 14, 2016 9:49 pm
by monzacoupe
It's been a while since I posted a stupid question so here goes...My engine is running a bit rough with a few backfires here and there to add some excitement! I'm trying to tune it but the mark is not lining up with the #1 wire. I'm wondering if I crossed a couple of spark plug wires when I changed the coil last winter.

On the picture of my distributor, if the silver sharpie is pointing to 12 o'clock, what are the spark plug wire's numbers? I have the number one wire at the 9o'clock position.

Thanks,

Rick

Re: Spark plug wires

PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2016 11:01 am
by monzacoupe
Ok, I just watched a video that educated me. I think I may have to reinstall my distributor.

Rick

Re: Spark plug wires

PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2016 8:54 pm
by spencerforhire
Generally, most people install a Chevy distributor with the #1 terminal on the cap pointing to cyl #1. It's not just for convenience; when arranged this way, only two plug wires have to cross over to the other side of the cap. # 2 and #3. Due to the firing order, this leaves #'s 8,4, and 6 on the right side and 1,5, and 7 on the left. Much neater that way, and the plug wires are as short as possible.
The only concern of where to drop the dizzy in is for there to be enough swing so the vacuum advance doesn't hit the valve cover or firewall.

Re: Spark plug wires

PostPosted: Mon Aug 15, 2016 11:56 pm
by monzacoupe
Thanks Spenser.

Rick