24 replies to this topic

[dklawson]

Returning to the spark plug wires....

Do you not have the option in the U.K. of going to an auto parts store and buying a generic plug wire kit? I have done this a couple of times when I wanted to have a high-quality set of plug wires with custom lengths. A common brand over here is Accel (popular with the hot-rod crowd). The kits typically are aimed at large V8 engines and so can be used to make two or more sets for a Mini. The kits typically include a set of boots, crimp terminals, and a crimping die to attach them.

If you do have kits available to you, they will allow you to make a very neat custom set of plug wires.

[Ethel]

We can buy plug lead components but the Ford coil packs have their own style of connector.

[dklawson]

Thanks Ethel. That sounds terribly limiting. Perhaps then custom wiring kits for the Fords originally using the coil pack could be used to make a neat plug wiring dress for the Mini. Surely someone must sell performance parts for those Fords.

[Ethel]

Well you're not stuck with the Ford Coil pack , there's also a decent tuning scene based round RS & Cosworth Fords so I dare say you could get some leads made up or do a "cut 'n shut" with some plug caps. It would be handy if there is a coil pack that uses old style coil terminals, anyone know of one?

[miniJJ]

Little update.

Ordered my trigger wheel today, should be here by christmas, along with shielded wire and some vaccum pipe.

Went to the scarpyard today, spent ages trying to find an acssesable vr sensor, in the end I managed to take one from a ford engine which had been removed from a car. Result!

Sadly, I couldn't find any suitable ht leads. All of the ones which were long enough, had the push fit coil connectors, and those with the correct coil fittings were too short. (went over ka's, sierra's, escorts, orion's, fiesta's and mondeos) Looks Like I'll be making up my own set.

Thanks

JJ

[Ethel]

Or just claim the later Ford coil with the leads. Have you got the LT plug for the coil? That's a unique Ford bit too.

[miniJJ]

That is the other option, but I have this coil now, and I've already made up a alloy mounting plate suited to it. I don't think it would be too much work to make up a custom set of leads, so I'm gonna stick with it.

Yup, I have the LT lead for the coil, most of my MJ kit is wired up now, just waiting on shielded wire.

Thanks,

JJ

[benno1275]

i spoke to a guy yesterday at stonleigh show who had a company called formula power leads he said he could do me a set of these fancy high current silicon leads for 30 quid but then i thought whats the point because my ford ones are perfect

but if you wanted to and didnt mind paying it you could speak to him and he could make you a set the right length

also have you had a look at the trigger wheels that steve from sd minis sells?

i bought one a few months back its possably one of the best looking ones i have seen

[miniJJ]

Thanks for that, might give them a ring if I can't sort something out soon.

According to the magajolt guide in the FAQ section, you can buy a adaptor kit from halfords. Made by Hotwires (Lumenition?), but I've searched the net and cannot find it!

I think I'll go on another hunt tomorrow.

JJ

[Ethel]

There's some NOS champion leads on the 'bay for a tenner.