70 Corvette LS5 engine with A/C replacing spark plug wires and spark plugs

[Chuck Z.]

Ran into a problem replacing all of my spark plug wires (Lectric Limited...excellent wires). No problems with the left bank (cylinders 1, 3, 5 and 7) and on the right bank, no problems with cylinders 6 and 8). Cylinder 2 was a challenge requiring the right front tire being pulled and going in above the A arm to remove the plug wire and spark plug. Took a little while, but got it done. The problem is with cylinder # 4. Removed the spark plug wire and spark plug. The challenge is getting the new wire onto the spark plug. I have tried everything possible to connect the wire, but no luck. Even had an old friend who claims to have small wrists take a try(no luck). Even resorted to my 10 year old granddaughter who has really small wrist with the same negative results.

So I am resorting to the wealth of knowledge on this technical board. Somebody with a C3 Big Block car and A/C most have run into this problem once in their life time. Any help or recommendation would be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks,
Chuck

[Mark E.]

Re: 70 Corvette LS5 engine with A/C replacing spark plug wires and spark plugs

You discovered the trick for #2 and #4- jack up the front, remove the RF tire and go through the A-arm dust flap.

With new wires, trial fit each boot with a loose plug in your hand and adjust the terminal as needed so it clips on properly. Sometimes the terminals are too tight out of the box.

[Richard K.]

Re: 70 Corvette LS5 engine with A/C replacing spark plug wires and spark plugs

I learned many years and plug changes ago to remove bolts holding compressor on and lift it out of the way. Its a good time to inspect the belt while your at it.

[Chuck Z.]

Re: 70 Corvette LS5 engine with A/C replacing spark plug wires and spark plugs

Hi Mark,
You hit the nail right on the head! Each spark plug wire was pretty tight going on. Once I heard the "snap" on each plug I smiled and then moved to the next cylinder. # 2 just does not give much room for my fingers to move the boot and terminal around. Going to do exactly as you said and work the # 2 spark plug terminal so it is just a little looser going. Will let you know how it works out. Thamk you.

Oh by the way, great color combination on your car. When I ordered my 70 Corvette back in the Summer of '69 it was a Donnybrook Green convertible with the light saddle leather interior, LS5 motor with a 4 speed, power windows, tilt telescopic steering wheel, A/C and a few other options. Still have it.

Chuck

[Edward D.]

Re: 70 Corvette LS5 engine with A/C replacing spark plug wires and spark plugs

Reduce friction. A little spray silicon into the wire boot makes it a lot easier to press onto the plug to the point you get the positive snap of the metal contact inside the boot onto the end of the plug.

[Mark E.]

Re: 70 Corvette LS5 engine with A/C replacing spark plug wires and spark plugs

Good tip. Be sure to use dielectric silicone grease, not regular silicone. Dielectric not only makes it easier to slip on the boot, but also acts as an insulator and repels moisture.

[Chuck Z.]

Re: 70 Corvette LS5 engine with A/C replacing spark plug wires and spark plugs

Thank you all for all the good recommendations. Mark was right about the spark plug terminals being to tight out of the box. I made a minor adjustment and the plug wire went right on with a good snap. Off to the next challenge.

Thanks,
Chuck