Wrench Like A Girl – Video #1:Distributor Wires

Posted by GreaseGirl on Sep 15, 2009 in How-To & Tech | 3 comments

Since sometimes its easier to “show” then “tell” I’ve decided to make some videos on tech issues when they come up with my 1955 Studebaker Champion. So without further adieu…here’s my first in the “Wrench Like A Girl” series…let me know whatcha think!

Topic: I’ll be changing out the distributor wires (aka ignition wires, spark wires).

Diagnosis: This problem was first brought to my attention by a friend who pointed out the gaping hole in the wire casing. And only then did it really register how uneven my idle was and how much power I’d lost in my engine! Keep in mind that these wires are carrying the electricity into the engine. Without these babies there would be no spark to ignite the gas within your engine chamber! Due to my damaged wire, my engine was not firing on all 8 cylinders – no bueno!

Parts: I picked up a new set of ACDelco wires from C&C Automotive Distributors in Long Beach. Cost: $40.68

Tools: Really just the new parts and your hands. I also needed an Allen wrench to undo the hex bolts on the part that was keeping my wires organized – as well as a couple new zip ties to keep the new wires away from my roomy headers – and a wax pencil or something like that to label the boots to their corresponding spark plug (this doesn’t have to be done, as they’ll be changed 1 at a time…but it was a 2nd security measure for me).

Time to do it: 1 hour. Could be less,but since I had those special wire holders it took some extra time.

Afterwards: Stude ran much better. I had alot more power and my engine no longer sounded out-of-synch. Some people have mentioned I should get the fiberglass socks that slip over the engine-end of the wires to protect em’ from heat…I will keep this option in mind – but call me vain, I just don’t like the way they look!

P.S. Hope this was helpful! “Wrench Like A Girl” is by no means trying to say girls don’t wrench as well…but rather, that we ladies may not have as much experience! So send your beginning-wrenching (or wanting to) friends over this way…whether they’re guys or gals!