Choosing and Replacing Spark Plug Wires on a 1981-1983 Plymouth PB350 Van
Restore your van's V8 power and reliability by understanding when and how to replace your spark plug wire set.
- Replace wires one at a time to maintain the correct firing order.
- Upgrading to an 8mm or 8.5mm silicone wire set provides better heat resistance and durability for the V8 engine.
- Symptoms like a rough idle, misfiring, and poor acceleration are strong indicators that your spark plug wires may be failing.
- For a stock engine, a quality OEM-style set from NGK or Standard is reliable, while performance brands like MSD offer benefits for longevity and spark energy.
Is Your PB350's V8 Running Rough? It Could Be the Wires.
The spark plug wires on your 1981-1983 Plymouth PB350 live in a harsh environment. Exposed to high heat from the engine and exhaust, as well as oil and vibration, they eventually wear out. When they fail, the symptoms are usually noticeable and can degrade your van's performance and reliability.
Common Symptoms of Bad Spark Plug Wires
- Rough Idle: Your van may shake or vibrate more than usual when stopped at a light.
- Engine Misfires: You might feel a jerking, stumbling, or hesitation from the engine, especially when accelerating.
- Poor Acceleration: The van may feel sluggish or down on power when you press the gas pedal.
- Hard Starting: The engine may take longer to crank before it starts, particularly in damp weather.
- Reduced Fuel Economy: If you're filling up the gas tank more often, inefficient spark from bad wires could be the cause.
- Visible Damage: A visual inspection may reveal cracks, melting, burn marks, or corrosion on the wires and their boots.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Spark Plug Wire Set
Since original OEM wires for this van are no longer made, the aftermarket is your only option. Fortunately, there are many high-quality choices available that often exceed the original specifications. They can be grouped into three main tiers.
Performance Tier (MSD, Taylor Cable, Accel)
These brands are popular in the classic Mopar community for good reason. They focus on delivering maximum spark energy and durability. Wires from brands like MSD (specifically their 8.5mm Super Conductor wires) and Taylor Cable feature spiral-wound cores that offer very low resistance, meaning more energy reaches the spark plug. They also use high-quality silicone jackets for superior heat protection. Accel is another performance option, with some sets offering ceramic boots for extreme heat resistance near exhaust headers. These are excellent choices if you want maximum performance and longevity.
OEM-Quality Tier (NGK, Denso, Standard Motor Products)
If you want a reliable, no-frills replacement that you can install and forget, this is the tier for you. Brands like NGK, Denso, and Standard Motor Products (SMP) are known for making parts that meet or exceed original factory standards. These wire sets are designed to be a direct fit and provide consistent, reliable performance for daily driving and general use. They offer a great balance of quality and cost.
Economy Tier (Walker Products, Store Brands)
This tier includes brands like Walker Products and various other value-focused lines. These wires are the most affordable and will get your van running properly. While they may not have the high-tech features or extreme durability of the performance brands, they are a perfectly functional solution for a budget-conscious repair.
Pro Tip: Replace Wires One at a Time
To avoid mixing up the engine's firing order, always replace one wire at a time. Remove an old wire, match its length to a new wire from the box, and install the new wire completely before moving on to the next one. This simple step prevents a major headache.
Expected Replacement Costs
The cost depends on the brand you choose and whether you do the work yourself. Replacing spark plug wires is a common DIY job that requires no special tools.
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Wire Set | $40.99 - $141.44 |
| Shop Labor | $60 - $120 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $100 - $262 |
Note: Costs are estimates and may vary by location and supplier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 7mm, 8mm, and 8.5mm wires?
The measurement refers to the wire's outer diameter. Generally, a thicker wire (like 8mm or 8.5mm) has more insulation and a more robust core, offering better heat resistance and RFI (radio frequency interference) suppression. For a PB350's large engine bay, a quality 8mm or 8.5mm silicone wire set is a good upgrade over the original 7mm style for improved durability.
Should I get a universal 'cut-to-fit' set?
Most owners should choose a direct-fit set made for the PB350's V8 engine. These come with the correct lengths and boots already installed. Universal sets require you to measure, cut, and crimp the distributor-side terminals yourself. While they offer customization for modified engines, they are more work and require a special crimping tool for a reliable connection.
How can I test my old wires?
A simple test can be done at night. With the engine running in a dark place, spray a light mist of water on the wires and look for tiny blue sparks arcing from the wire to any metal part of the engine. If you see sparks, the wire insulation has failed and the set needs to be replaced.
Do I need special tools to replace my wires?
No special tools are required. The most important technique is to pull on the boot—the thick rubber or silicone end—not the wire itself. Twisting the boot first can help break the seal, making it easier to remove from the spark plug and distributor cap.
Technical Specifications
Engine Fitment: 5.2L (318ci) V8, 5.9L (360ci) V8. Wire Core Type: Spiral Wound (recommended). Wire Diameter: 7mm (stock), 8mm, 8.5mm (performance upgrade). Boot Material: Silicone. Distributor End Type: Socket (Female). Spark Plug End Type: Varies (Straight and 90-degree boots).
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Plymouth PB350:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your PB350's V8 Running Rough? It Could Be the Wires.
- Common Symptoms of Bad Spark Plug Wires
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Spark Plug Wire Set
- Performance Tier (MSD, Taylor Cable, Accel)
- OEM-Quality Tier (NGK, Denso, Standard Motor Products)
- Economy Tier (Walker Products, Store Brands)
- Pro Tip: Replace Wires One at a Time
- Expected Replacement Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions
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