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Do I need header plug wires or regular?

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Old May 16, 2005 | 10:11 PM
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Default Do I need header plug wires or regular?

When putting on my B&B headers, I tore my original plugs and had to use one off of my dad's S10 until I get new ones. I think I have decided on red MSD 8.5 wires but not sure if I need the regulars since the headers are shorties or the "header wires." Also, who has the best price on these and how much? I'm going to the drag strip Thurs. so I need them soon! I prefer to buy them at a store but there aren't many parts stores around here (Advance and Napa). Thanks!
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Old May 17, 2005 | 09:55 AM
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Old May 17, 2005 | 10:21 AM
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In my opinion, the stock wires are perfect. They are short and have heat shields to keep them from melting. I have yet to hear anyone post any gains from running other more expensive wires.

I ran the MSD wires for about a year until I started getting misfires. The heat from the headers deteriorated 3 of the wires. If you run something else, make sure you use cool sox or some type of heat shield.
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Old May 17, 2005 | 10:23 AM
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If you go with the MSD's be sure to use the stock metal shields along with them. Should help with them lasting longer
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Old May 17, 2005 | 10:42 AM
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Thanks for the replies. I'm not going for performance gains... just something to replace my bad stock set since the msds are cheaper than delco. Any other suggestions
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Old May 17, 2005 | 10:44 AM
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Originally Posted by WardVette
Thanks for the replies. I'm not going for performance gains... just something to replace my bad stock set since the msds are cheaper than delco. Any other suggestions

As mentioned earlier, use Kool Sox.
Ed
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Old May 17, 2005 | 12:20 PM
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So does anybody know if i need regular wires or header wires? Or know of a cheap place to get them
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Old May 17, 2005 | 12:22 PM
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I used the MSD's on my car..you can use the stock heat shields OR you can bend the boots to keep them away from the headers
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Old May 17, 2005 | 12:31 PM
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so if i plan to use my stock heat sheilds i should buy the regular wires. just want to make sure before i spent 75 bucks. thanks
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Old May 17, 2005 | 12:44 PM
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With the B&B shorty headers be aware that the plug wire on the left-side #3 cylinder will touch the header pipe. I burnt through two factory plug wires ($28 a piece!) before deciding to go with a set of MSD 8.5mm wires. The MSD wires have an adjustable spark plug boot that allows you to bend the wire away from the header. In addition, Cool Sox are definitely a good idea!
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Old May 17, 2005 | 01:56 PM
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I installed MSD 8.5 regular length wires with BBK shorty headers on my 97 about 8 months ago, did not reuse the factory heat shields and have not experienced any problems thus far.

However the plug wire boots do not come close to the header pipes at all.

good luck
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Old May 17, 2005 | 02:02 PM
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thanks guys... i guess ill go with regulars. Anybody know of the cheapest place to get them?
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Old May 17, 2005 | 02:08 PM
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Originally Posted by WardVette
thanks guys... i guess ill go with regulars. Anybody know of the cheapest place to get them?

Got mine on ebay for $50.00
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