Engine Missing Plugs, wires???

[Anonymous-0]

I have a tractor that has one or two cylinders missing. When I pull the spark plug wire out of the distributor, and it arcs about 1/2 inch, they start firing. Switching the wires with other ones that fire does not seem to matter. I changed the gap on one of the plugs to be smaller 0.016 and it started firing. The other one did not matter much with a smaller gap. Any ideas what the problem may be?

 

[buickanddeere]

Replace, do not clean modern spark plugs.
Just guessing here as I have no idea of the engine make, model, condition etc.Odds are either new Autolite 216 or 437, 3116 or 378 will be a place to start.
If the wires are not solid core, non resisitor units. Toss them as well.
Is the engine burning oil,running rich or being operated too cold?

 

[Anonymous-0]

Have a Super M that done the same thing. I replaced the plugs and it done fine. The bad part is the plugs that where in it were only a month old. They were autolites

 

[Anonymous-0]

Any suggestions on solid core wire source? These do not appear to be.

 

[Walt Davies]

Napa has copper core kits in both 4 and 8 wire system. I alway buy the 8 because I can do 2 4's with it for one a few dollars more.
Walt

 

[rustyfarmall]

Those wires are available right here on YT, or try ebay, or send me an e-mail.

 

[Janicholson]

BuickandDeere has the answer. As you pull off the wire, the spark voltage goes up radically. This increase causes the spark plug to fire even when contaminated with a carbon track. New plugs will make it work (for a while). Adjusting the carb, or rebuild of engine may be needed if it smokes at all. JimN

 

[Marv]

Check for a bad/leaking manifold gasket. Spray some WD40 on the gasket and if you notice a change in engine sound the gasket is leaking air.

 

[Anonymous-0]

I put in the new plug and copper wires and it runs great! Thanks for the suggestions!