Frequently Asked Questions

Do high performance spark plug wires make a difference?

If you're looking to eke out every last bit of performance from your car, you might be wondering if upgrading to high performance spark plug wires will make a difference. The answer is yes and no – it depends on the specific circumstances. Here's a rundown of how spark plug wires work, and what factors into whether or not they'll give you a performance boost.

Spark plug wires carry the electrical current from the ignition coil to the spark plugs. This current is responsible for igniting the air/fuel mixture in the cylinders, which in turn powers the engine. The thicker the wire, the more current it can carry without resistance.

That's why high performance wires are often made with thicker gauge copper or Kevlar cores. However, just because a wire can carry more current doesn't necessarily mean it will create a stronger spark at the plugs. In fact, sometimes too much current can actually cause arcing between the wire and plug, which weakens the spark.

It's all about finding that sweet spot where there's enough current to reliably ignite the mixture without causing arcing. Another factor to consider is resistance itself – specifically, how much resistance is introduced by different types of insulation around the core of the wire. Some materials like silicone have very low resistance (meaning less energy is lost as heat), while others like rubber have higher resistance (meaning more energy is lost as heat).

This loss of energy manifests as heat under your hood, which can potentially damage sensitive electronics or even start a fire. So if you're going to upgrade your wires, make sure you get ones with low-resistance insulation like silicone. So in summary, yes – high performance spark plug wires can make a difference in terms of both power and reliability.

What are the best spark plug wires for performance?

There are a few different types of spark plug wires that can be used for performance, and each has its own benefits. One type is the solid core wire, which is designed to handle high temperatures and high voltages. This makes it ideal for race engines that need to produce a lot of power.

Another advantage of solid core wires is that they don't have any resistance, so all of the electricity from the coil goes straight to the plugs. Another type of spark plug wire is the spiral-wound wire. These are made with a copper or carbon core that's surrounded by a metal alloy conductor.

The benefit of these wires is that they can handle even higher voltages than solid core wires without breaking down. Spiral-wound wires also have very low resistance, so they're great for street performance applications where you want as much power as possible going to the plugs. The last type of spark plug wire is an insulated wire.

These are typically used in lower-performance applications where voltage and temperature aren't as much of a concern. Insulated wires are easier to install and usually cost less than other types of wires. However, they don't conduct electricity as well and can introduce resistance into the system, which can reduce power output.

Does it matter what kind of spark plug wires I use?

The answer to this question is both yes and no. While the type of spark plug wires you use will not necessarily affect the performance of your engine, it can affect how long your spark plugs last. If you are looking for a set of spark plug wires that will last longer than average, then it is worth considering a higher quality set.

However, if you are simply looking for a set of wires that will get the job done, then any type of wire will suffice.

Are premium spark plug wires worth it?

If you're looking for better performance from your engine, premium spark plug wires may be worth the investment. They create a stronger spark than standard plug wires, which can lead to improved combustion and increased power. In addition, they're typically more durable and have less resistance, meaning they can transfer energy more efficiently.

However, keep in mind that other factors like spark plugs and ignition timing also play a role in engine performance, so don't expect miracles from premium wires alone.