Chevrolet 12036972 Wire Assembly, Coil

Make sure to check the spark plug wires either at the specified intervals or when new spark plugs are being installed. One wire at a time, disconnect it from the spark plug either by twisting and pulling on its rubber boot or using a removal tool. It is not advisable to pull out the whole wire. See if there is any white crusty powder inside the boot. Also, make sure that both of them are tight enough against the spark plug. In case they do not fit properly, use pliers to crimp the metal connector inside the boot. At this point, clean all dirt and grease from throughout the length of the wire with a piece of cloth before looking for burns, cracks or other forms of damage. This test is necessary to check if the wire inside is still conductive. The wires should be checked in exactly the same manner as spark plugs at distributor level. Put each wire securely back in place both at distributor and spark plug ends. In order to visually check whether there is any arcing or sparks indicating a break or fault, one can start his/her car engine in a very dark garage having ventilation facilities around him/her. When replacing them, get a new set that corresponds to your particular engine model and change wires one by one so as to maintain sequential firing order.

When installing new wires, replace them one at a time to avoid mixing them up. Start by replacing the longest one first. Install the boot firmly over the spark plug and route the wire over the same path as the original. Insert the nipple firmly onto the tower on the distributor cap, then install the cap cover and latches to secure the wires.

Check inside the boot for corrosion, which appears as a white crusty powder.

Clean the wire with a rag, removing dirt and grease, and inspect for burns, cracks, or other damage. Bend the wire in multiple places to check its flexibility.

Push the wire and boot back onto the spark plug, ensuring a tight fit. If it is not secure, carefully crimp the metal connector inside the wire boot with pliers.

Check the wires at the distributor in the same manner as the spark plugs.

You should observe for arcing or sparks at damaged areas on each plug wire.

When inspecting the spark plug wire, look for burns, cracks, and other damage.

The spark plug wires should be checked at the recommended intervals or whenever new spark plugs are installed.