I just installed a set of headers and melted thru my plug wires. (DUH, who would thunk...) So, I am considering using either header wrap or insulating spark plug boots. Are their pro's and con's of each? Does header wrap really 'significantly' reduce underhood temps? I read that header wrap can also destroy headers due to the heat buildup. (My car is only going to be drive once in a while, not for prolonged races...) Any opinions?

 

I am using 90 deg spark plug boots and LT 1 90deg metal boot shields and that solved ny problem with the hot SLP headers. Straight plug wires will not work with headers, my opinion.

 

avoid completely wraping the headers, I would use boot insulators, ect.

 

Header wrap is only for a race car that doesn't see rain driving. Moisture will collect under the wrap and rot out the tubes. You're better off with just some insulating sleeves.

 

Don't use header wrap. I just used 90 degree plug wires on my IROC and didn't have any problems. I think I had to use LT1 metal shield on one or two of them though.

 

I bought a set of Kevlar spark plug insulating boots from summit a while ago. They worked very well, had them resting right up against the header and nothing would ever happen to the plug wire itself.

The set that i bought had metal rings to keep the boot close to the wire, for whatever reason they were arcing against my headers. Took out the ring on each one and problem solved.

I would recommend the boots for anyone running headers.

 

I agree, use the sleeve. Depending on where your wires are melting.. i used to burn through the boots, never melted a wire. I switched to the JACOBS porcelain ended wires.. haven't had a problem since, I used to go through 6 boots per summer.. I've been running jacbos 2 years and no problems yet.

 

i agree with what everyone else said. sleeves. no header wrap.

 

A set of DEI plug boots run about $45, use them and forget the wrap, not to mention that stuff has fiberglass and you'll be itching for days... trust me, been there done that!!

 

I'm running the SLP 1/34 with AFR angle 195s.
Burned a couple different so called good boots and
ended going to 1 strip double wrapped header wrap
with stainless header wrap clamps.

Works like a champ and looks good. #8 and #5 the culprits
with this combo.
Also having to use the Auto shorty plugs

Just some info on this setup

Later
Irocing

 

I sleeved the number 3 and 6. Lets see how long they last, they are lightly resting on the header. Thanks for all the input. Now go read my post about my starter!