Question on plug wires with headers
Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 4,653
Likes: 6
From: North Royalton, OH
St. Jude Donor '06-'07
Question on plug wires with headers
I'm going to install headers on the '71 (350) when I change out the heads in a few weeks. Should I keep the stock plug wire routing around and up the side of the block, or should I go with the aftermarket "visible wires" installation? For those that have gone with the "above ground" wiring, what wires did you use? Specifically, I'm wondering how you purchased the wires - if you ask for Corvette wires at the counter, you'll get the ones that are 5 feet long and designed to wrap under the block... obviously I need shorter wires if they will stay up and above the headers. What did you all do? Make your own? What about any brackets? Advise is welcome, including suggested brands of wires/brackets to buy. Will I need added protection from the headers? Thanks! 
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 7,804
Likes: 4
From: Standing still with all my might Texas
Cruise-In X Veteran
St. Jude Donor '09-'11
I just installed a set of MSD Spiral core wires on my 383. They come with the plug connector installed, then you cut them to length and install the distributor contact and boot yourself, the set comes with a special crimping tool for the ends.
I routed them using a set of slightly modified Billet Specialties wire looms.
I will try to take some pics tonight when I get home.
I routed them using a set of slightly modified Billet Specialties wire looms.
I will try to take some pics tonight when I get home.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 5,943
Likes: 3
From: Wildwood IL
I cut mine for a custom fit, and it's easy. Used Moroso Blue Max brand with 90* high heat plug boots that are great for headers. Three boots sit 1/16" away from my headers and have not melted. A wide variety of wire looms (and wire sets) are availabe from Summit & Jegs to keep the engine bay organized.
Eddie
Eddie
Pro
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 666
Likes: 5
From: Mt. Pleasant SC
I have a 73 350 (L82) and I went with the Accel 8mm Shielded Custom Fit wires. I route them on the side of my valve covers (using polished aluminum brackets) above the headers. They fit perfect (no cutting or re-sizing) and they look fantastic. Found them locally at Parks Auto, but they can be ordered on-line if you're not in a hurry. Here's a link:
http://www.partsamerica.com/ProductD...e=5004&ptset=A
http://www.partsamerica.com/ProductD...e=5004&ptset=A
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 11,874
Likes: 263
From: Arlington Va Current ride 04 vert, previous vettes: 69 vert, 77 resto mod
its all your choice
these are MSD 8.5 precut for over the valve covers...with Moroso valve cover wire looms and two differebt types of MSD plug wire seperators
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these are MSD 8.5 precut for over the valve covers...with Moroso valve cover wire looms and two differebt types of MSD plug wire seperators
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Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 4,653
Likes: 6
From: North Royalton, OH
St. Jude Donor '06-'07
OUTSTANDING - thank you all. That's exactly what I was looking for. I figured most of you would be doing a custom cut install, but I wanted to make sure I wasn't missing out on some deep dark secret, like "the '73 Malibu wires are a perfect fit - no cutting", if you know what I mean. Red73 - that is a stunning engine compartment, and I like the way you ran your wires. I've seen those looms in several locations and online. Now all I have to do is get busy!!!
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Race Director
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 11,874
Likes: 263
From: Arlington Va Current ride 04 vert, previous vettes: 69 vert, 77 resto mod
Originally Posted by BSiegPaint
OUTSTANDING - thank you all. That's exactly what I was looking for. I figured most of you would be doing a custom cut install, but I wanted to make sure I wasn't missing out on some deep dark secret, like "the '73 Malibu wires are a perfect fit - no cutting", if you know what I mean. Red73 - that is a stunning engine compartment, and I like the way you ran your wires. I've seen those looms in several locations and online. Now all I have to do is get busy!!!
Race Director
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 19,659
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From: Lenoir City Tennessee
Ci 6, 8 & 10 Veteran
St. Jude Donor '05-'06-'07-'08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15
I got the MSD 8.5 custom fit set at Autozone. Like mentioned above they do come with thier own crimping tool. Not too hard of a job. Just route them like you want and cut to fit.
