DIY Network

Eclipse Ignition Upgrade: Performance Plugs, Wires and Coil Mitsubishi Eclipse--Engine Upgrade, Part 3 of 3 From "Tricked Out" episode DTRK-305

Performance plugs, wires and coil will help improve power and fuel efficiency.

In this project Andrew Totolos installs a custom air intake system, and some ignition upgrades, on a '99 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In this final phase of the project, Andrew completes othe final upgrade that will also increase power and fuel efficiency: tuning up the ignition.

Materials/Tools:

wires and coil pack
iridium spark plugs
gap tool for spark plugs
marker
standard shop tools

advertisement

Steps:

• The first step is to install a hot-air coil pack (figure A). It goes to 40,000 volts, which means a more complete fuel burn.

• This Mitsubishi is designed so that it's nearly impossible to mix up the plug wires, but if you're working on a car that isn't foolproof, it's a good idea to label the wires before you remove them.

• Remove the old plug wires (figure B).

  Figure A

  Figure B

  
  

• After the coil wires are pulled off, unplug the coil pack harness and remove the four bolts that secure the coil pack to the valve cover, and replace it with the new unit (figure C). Since the plug wires will have to wait until after the new plugs are indexed in the only thing left on the coil pack install is to plug it in.

• For your spark plugs (figure D), you'll want to make sure that the gap between the ground point and the electrode is set correctly. If you're using stock plugs, check your car's manual to find out what the gap should be. But if you upgrade your ignition, check those specifications to find out what it's going to be.

  Figure C

  Figure D

  
  

  	Figure E
  	Figure F
  	Before the ignition enhancements
  	The newly installed performance coil and plug wires
  	Before
  	After the modifications

• A spark plug gap tool will help you adjust the gap to the proper thickness (figure E). If the gap needs to be opened, carefully bend the entire ground strap out and then bring the tip back in and keep the entire surface parallel to the electrode.

• When you're satisfied with the first gap repeat the process for the remaining plugs.

• When you're done gapping, the plug should be indexed for the optimum burning of the combustion chamber. In other words, make sure the open part of the spark is facing the fuel charge and not being blocked by the ground strap.

• Mark at the top of the insulator so you'll know where the open end is.

• Use a felt marker to indicate the gap position, and then take them to the car.

• You'll want to try the replacement plugs in multiple locations for the best orientation, remove all the old spark plugs (figure F) before you install the first new plug,

• Apply a small amount of anti-seize to each of the plugs threads to make it easier to change them the next time, and then insert the first plug.

• If the mark doesn't align within 20-degrees of center, try the plug in the next cylinder.

• Continue the process for the remaining cylinders.

After the plug wires are installed, the ignition intake upgrades are complete. Be sure to reattach the negative cable to your battery, and you're set.

The Bottom Line:

Air filter and pipes $170
Aluminum and self-tapping screws $20
Wires and coil pack $215
Plugs, gap tool and index washers $25

Total cost $430

Important: Included in this summary are the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular car or truck, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of upgrade-kit you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

RESOURCES :

Racing Innovations, Inc.
We apologize no contact information is available.

Howell Automotive
www.howellautomotive.com

Vibrant Performance
www.vibrantperformance.com

Performance Distributors
www.performancedistributors.com

Accel
www.mrgasket.com