Protecting Spark Plug wires from Headers

[cudabob496]

Found a cheap way to keep headers from burning up plug wires. Found a hollow aluminum broom handle, 1 inch in diameter.  Cut into
5 inch lengths, or two 2.5 inch lengths (where the wire turned sharply), and slid aluminum tubing over the plug boot and wires that are near
the header.  Beats spending $80 on those cloth type boots that also just reflect radiant heat,
and they catch on fire! Also, aluminum does not melt till about 1200F I think. Also, on a couple, it was easier to
cut the 5 inch tube down the middle, spread it apart a little, slip it over the boot/wire, then crimp it back down.

[Chryco Psycho]

if the wire or boot leaks slightly it could short to ground through the Alum

[cudabob496]

if the wire or boot leaks slightly it could short to ground through the Alum

Well, my Firebird uses the same type aluminum wire protectors.  And if you had damaged wires
that were conducting to the aluminum, obviously they should be replaced anyway. Also,
unless the aluminum is in contact with the head or headers, there would be no short to ground.  I'd say
there is a much better chance of wires being damaged by the header heat, than there being
a short to ground.  Good way to check for cracked plug wires is to observe them while the car
in running, in the dark.

Also, ceramic coated headers (coated on the inside and out) is another helpful method of keeping
the wires cooler.

Just saw a recent post where the guy had those sock type insulators, and one caught on fire,
which is a much more serious situation, with the potential for major damage!