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spark plug cap

Posted: 03 Dec 2010, 19:13
by simony
do i need to replace this spark plug cap with one of the exact same resistance this one has 5 k ohms marked on it ? thanks simon Image

Re: spark plug cap

Posted: 03 Dec 2010, 19:16
by VWCamperfan
Not if your HT leads are carbon, no. The leads will provide the resistance. If you use copper cored leads then you will.

Re: spark plug cap

Posted: 03 Dec 2010, 19:19
by simony
think there copper have re-attached lead direct to spark plug and runs ok will it damage anything ?

Re: spark plug cap

Posted: 03 Dec 2010, 19:23
by VWCamperfan
Won't damage anything but could cause interference to audio equipment or electrical equipment nearby. Other than that, no problems!

Re: spark plug cap

Posted: 03 Dec 2010, 19:50
by simony
ok cheers will be able to use it to fetch replacement

Re: spark plug cap

Posted: 15 Dec 2010, 01:12
by Red Westie
Carbon impregnated string type HT leads, resistor spark plug caps AND spark plugs WITH built in resistors are all designed to elliminate radio interference with things like tellevisions and radios.
Actually they don't serve any other good purpose other than that.
The built in resistance can actually make the part less reliable (compaired to a none resistor type)
You can't beat good old fashioned copper HT leads with none resistor plugs and caps BUT your neighbour might stop speaking to you. lol
As a side note* often ALL 3 with built in resistance (plugs/leads & cap) are used at the same time!
Oh..and some rotor arms as well!
I think resistor type rotor arms/leads and plug caps is standard setup on our vans (not plugs tho)

Metal plug cap shrowds were commonly removed (by VW service technicians) if misfires or rough running was reported.
Martin