COP boots - How tight?

[Mote]

I am changing my spark plugs so I can add to the "What did you do to your car today?" thread ;) I am pulling the COP boots off the plugs and there is almost zero resistance on some and very little on others. I did use dielectric grease on the springs last time so I'm glad they aren't stuck I guess. I don't recall how difficult it was last time (2 years ago). These are stock COPs.

I haven't changed the plugs yet - I'm waiting for the engine to get cold - But I did put the COPs back on and there is no real indication they are on or on all the way. It would be great if they clicked or something to give feedback. Hrm.

I put one of the new plugs in the boot - The spring is loose over the plug but the boot goes way further on so I don't know if it makes better contact as it goes on further. Crude measurements tell me the boot should go over most/all the ceramic part of the plug when the COP is installed. And if so, I should feel it tug as I remove it.

I don't feel good/confident about this right now...

[RF Overlord]

The stock springs are pretty wimbly...get a set of Granatelli connectors and you'll feel how much more snug and secure they are.

[fastblackmerc]

The stock springs are pretty wimbly...get a set of Granatelli connectors and you'll feel how much more snug and secure they are.

+1 on the Granatelli connectors.

Would you rather have a ball point pen spring or a stranded stainless steel wire the diameter of a pencil?

[Mote]

The stock springs are pretty wimbly...get a set of Granatelli connectors and you'll feel how much more snug and secure they are.

"wimbly" describes them well. I changed out the plugs (after the engine was stone cold) #8 had oil on the plug between the tip and the ceramic. The electrode looked fine, and I didn't see any in the well. I used anti-seize and a small torque wrench. I wimbled on the boots(after greasing the springs) and buttoned it up. It runs great so I'll stop worrying.

I can't justify $200+ for connectors when there doesn't seem to be a problem, but I probably won't go OEM if I have to replace COPs. BTW Midway Ford wants $195 to TEST the COPs (on the car). Good grief.

[RF Overlord]

I can't justify $200+ for connectors when there doesn't seem to be a problem, Good Lord! When I bought mine they were only a little over $100...

[fastblackmerc]

"wimbly" describes them well. I changed out the plugs (after the engine was stone cold) #8 had oil on the plug between the tip and the ceramic. The electrode looked fine, and I didn't see any in the well. I used anti-seize and a small torque wrench. I wimbled on the boots(after greasing the springs) and buttoned it up. It runs great so I'll stop worrying.

I can't justify $200+ for connectors when there doesn't seem to be a problem, but I probably won't go OEM if I have to replace COPs. BTW Midway Ford wants $195 to TEST the COPs (on the car). Good grief.

$200.00???? Holy crap Batman! Your not looking in the right place.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Granatelli-2-Valve-HIGH-OUTPUT-Coil-On-Plug-Connectors-/390255101307?pt=Motors_Car_Tru ck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item5add04457b&vxp=mtr