Thread: "Frying" ignition wire boots

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Got my '38 Chevy w/ 350 and Sanderson cast headers about 2 years ago. Started running crappy so I thought I thought I'd look at the plugs. Ignition wire boots had the fiberglass material covers over them. When I pulled on the boots they were completely discentegrated and the plugs were arcing out on the headers. OK I found the problem. Called previous owner and he said he had "burned up" plug wire boots also and couldn't figure out why. I replaced them with Taylor 8mm spiro pro series new wires and boots. Same thing after only about 2,000 miles! Boots completely broken down. Car just streeted, no hard running and runns consistently at 190 degrees. I can't imagine I am the only one with this problem, common enough engine and header combination. Car was just dyno tuned last year. Anyone have any suggestions?

Are you sure your base timing is right, and your total timing idle through cruise rpm? Running retarded timing really boosts exhaust temperatures, especially right at the exit of the cylinder. Just a thought...

Originally Posted by Mastiff107

.... I can't imagine I am the only one with this problem, common enough engine and header combination. Car was just dyno tuned last year. Anyone have any suggestions?

I had the same problem on a 327 with Sanderson's. First thing I did was switch to Shorty spark plugs to help put a little more distance between the boot and the header.

This worked for a while but ultimately, the solution was to install ceramic boot plug wires.

Hope this helps.

Joe G.

Originally Posted by rspears

Are you sure your base timing is right, and your total timing idle through cruise rpm? Running retarded timing really boosts exhaust temperatures, especially right at the exit of the cylinder. Just a thought...

would be my thought . got the fire in the header not the cylinder. easy check is to shoot the headers with a temp gun then bump the timing and check.

Do they have guns like that in Texas?

I'd look into the timing as stated above. But if that doesn't pan out might look at the metal boot protectors such as used on 2005 Chevy pickups with the 5.3 engine. Could not come up with any aftermarkrt ones so you'll need to check with the dealer.

big dude , you know i got a gun for just about any occasion or circumstance .......