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Spark plug boots not snapping tight

Discussion in 'Technical Chat' started by HuckleSmothered, Nov 13, 2011.

  1. Nov 13, 2011 at 6:59 AM
    #1
    HuckleSmothered

    HuckleSmothered [OP] Active Member

    Joined:
    Nov 9, 2011
    Member:
    #66740
    Messages:
    43
    Gender:
    Male
    Vehicle:
    95 Tacoma Ext Cab
    Recently bought a 95 Tacoma and wanted to take a look at the spark plugs to determine if they needed changing.

    The plugs seem fine, however, the rubber boots (hope I'm using the right terminology) don't snap down on the engine block.

    It looks like the distributor cap and wires were recently replaced. I'd hate to replace new stuff if this isn't a problem. I've never had a vehicle where they didn't snap down. Is it something that needs fixing? Can I fix the current ones? Would I have to replace? Were the wrong ones used?

    Any advice would be appreciated.
     
  2. Nov 18, 2011 at 9:23 AM
    #2
    HuckleSmothered

    HuckleSmothered [OP] Active Member

    Joined:
    Nov 9, 2011
    Member:
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    Messages:
    43
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    Male
    Vehicle:
    95 Tacoma Ext Cab
    Here was what I found out on my own:

    The rubber boots do need to fasten snuggly (usually a snap when you push them down). If not, they will allow moisture and dirt in. This causes inefficient firing which can lead to bigger problems.

    I ignored it at first. But the Check Engine light came on again. The code was for Catalytic Converter Efficiency Degraded (or something similar). One of the causes, according to a web site analyzing codes, was O2 sensors, catalytic converters, or bad spark plug firings. I chose the third option to fix first.

    Despite the distributor cap and wires looking relatively new, I went out and bought a new set of wires. Pulling the old ones, I noticed a distinct length difference. The new ones fit just perfectly. Basically, someone put the wrong ones on before.

    Reset the Check Engine light and boom, its working just fine now.

    Lesson learned, the spark plug boots should definitely fit tight on the engine and on the spark plugs.
     
  3. Nov 23, 2011 at 2:33 AM
    #3
    danjones

    danjones Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Nov 17, 2011
    Member:
    #67175
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    NC
    Vehicle:
    11 taco
    new plug wires are cheap. if u dont want to buy new ones use a pair of pliers and lightly crimp the metal ring inside so it fits more snug. that is assuming u have the correct wires though.
     

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