Spark Plugs and Wires

[Jtcarter06]

I could have missed it but going to ask anyways…I’m going to change out the spark plugs to the XP985 but wasn’t sure if I needed to change the wires too. I don’t have service history so going down the list of things to do and I am going to assume the wires are original. If I need to replace the wires which ones should I get to go with those spark plugs?

 

[TheBoogieman]

I always used ACCEL wires when I had them (97-99).

 

[Jerry Bransford]

OEM Mopar wires are the best if you can find them. Avoid any claiming to be "performance" with "low resistance". While low resistance naturally sounds good it's not in the case of ignition wiring. More resistance is purposely added at extra cost to eliminate static and RF noise which can affect the PCM plus cause static/engine noise in AM and CB radios.

 

[Jtcarter06]

OEM Mopar wires are the best if you can find them. Avoid any claiming to be "performance" with "low resistance". While low resistance naturally sounds good it's not in the case of ignition wiring. More resistance is purposely added at extra cost to eliminate static and RF noise which can affect the PCM plus cause static/engine noise in AM and CB radios.

If I am having no issues could I get away with keeping wires as is and just doing the spark plugs? If I can find OEM Mopar wires I’ll get them but if not was wondering if I needed to do it.

 

[ColoJeep]

If I am having no issues could I get away with keeping wires as is and just doing the spark plugs? If I can find OEM Mopar wires I’ll get them but if not was wondering if I needed to do it.

I've used monel style spiral wrap high performance ignition wires in the past on my hot rods. Think of them as a good alternative between the stock carbon core , and extremely low resistance solid core wire. The spiral wrap monel wires are kind of a waste on a stock Jeep , however they offer much better silicone insulation and connectors at the plug and cap. EFI/RFI is still good with these wires as you don't want interference / noise in your high performance engine electronics.

What ever you decide I recommend you change the cap , rotor , and wires with your plugs to get a good baseline on the ignition system.
Stock type carbon cores are a consumable item like wiper blades as they crack and break down. Have Fun with your Tune up TJ are some of the easiest engines to work on!

 

[Jerry Bransford]

If I am having no issues could I get away with keeping wires as is and just doing the spark plugs? If I can find OEM Mopar wires I’ll get them but if not was wondering if I needed to do it.

New ignition wiring isn't required if it looks to be in decent condition. No cracking etc.

 

[KennethS]

I have heard from old timer hot-rodders the way they check plug wires is to look at the engine running in the dark. If you see any arcing, the wires need to be replaced.

 

[mudmaster]

I have heard from old timer hot-rodders the way they check plug wires is to look at the engine running in the dark. If you see any arcing, the wires need to be replaced.

I don't know that I'm an old timer, but I've done this.