TESTING

At every tune-up/inspection, visually check the spark plug cables for burns cuts, or breaks in the insulation. Check the boots and the nipples on the distributor cap and/or coil. Replace any damaged wiring.

Every 50,000 miles (80,000 Km) or 60 months, the resistance of the wires should be checked with an ohmmeter. Wires with excessive resistance will cause misfiring, and may make the engine difficult to start in damp weather.

1. Remove the spark plug cable from the engine.

   Fig. 1: Measuring the resistance of spark plug cable using a volt/ohmmeter

2. Check the cap and the coating of the cable for cracks. Replace the cable if cracks are present.
3. Using a volt ohmmeter, measure the resistance of the wire. Compare the measured resistance to following the desired values:

   1.8L Engine

   • Spark plug cable No. 1 — 10.1K ohms
   • Spark plug cable No. 2 — 11.5K ohms
   • Spark plug cable No. 3 — 12.0K ohms
   • Spark plug cable No. 4 — 13.0K ohms

   1990–94 2.0L Engines

   • Spark plug cable No. 1 — 5.8 ohms
   • Spark plug cable No. 2 — 8.4 ohms
   • Spark plug cable No. 3 — 10.6 ohms
   • Spark plug cable No. 4 — 9.7 ohms

   1995–98 2.0L Non-turbo Engines

   • Spark plug cables No. 1–4 — 8K ohms.

   1995–98 2.0L Turbo and 2.4L Engines

   • Spark plug cables No. 1–4 — 22K ohms
4. If the measures resistance differs from the desired values, replace the spark plug cable. It is recommended that all cables be replaced if 1 wire need be replaced.