A Guide to Spark Plug Wire Sets for the 1968-1972 Ford Escort Mk1
Deliver a reliable, powerful spark to your classic Escort's Kent engine by choosing the right ignition wire set.
- This guide is for the European 1968-1972 Ford Escort Mk1, often with a Kent Crossflow engine.
- Upgrade to 8mm or 8.5mm silicone wires from brands like Magnecor or Burton Power for better durability and heat resistance.
- Always replace wires one at a time to avoid mixing up the firing order.
- Check if your car has a top-entry or side-entry distributor cap before ordering a new set.
A Note for North American Owners
The 1968-1972 Ford Escort, often called the Mk1, is a European model that was not originally sold in the US or Canada. The Escort name was later used on a different, front-wheel-drive car in North America starting in 1981. This guide is for the classic, rear-wheel-drive Mk1 Escort, which is often fitted with the Ford Kent "Crossflow" engine. When searching for parts, using the engine type "Ford Kent Crossflow" will often yield better results than the car model alone.
Symptoms of Failing Spark Plug Wires
Old or damaged spark plug wires can cause a variety of noticeable engine issues. Since this is an inexpensive and easy part to replace, it should be one of the first things you check if you experience these problems.
- Engine Misfires: The engine may stumble, jerk, or lose power, especially under acceleration. This happens when a wire fails to deliver enough voltage for a proper spark.
- Rough Idle: Your car may shake or vibrate when stopped and idling because the combustion process is inconsistent.
- Hesitation During Acceleration: Degraded wires can supply an irregular electrical current, causing the engine to hesitate when you press the gas pedal.
- Difficulty Starting: Weak spark makes it harder for the engine to fire up, especially when cold.
- Visible Damage: A visual inspection may reveal cracks, burns, or melted spots on the wire insulation or boots. Sometimes, you can even see a faint blue spark jumping from a damaged wire to a metal engine part in the dark while the engine is running.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Wire Set
For the Mk1 Escort, you have two main choices: standard replacement wires that mimic the original style, or performance-oriented wires that offer better durability and spark delivery.
Tier 1: Standard Replacement Wires
These are typically 7mm wires with a carbon core, similar to what the car would have had originally. They are a great choice for stock engines used for normal driving. Brands like Bosch and Lucas are common choices in this category. While they function perfectly well, the materials are not as heat-resistant as modern silicone wires.
Tier 2: Performance Upgrade Wires
For owners who want improved durability and performance, an 8mm or 8.5mm silicone wire set is a popular upgrade. These wires have a much higher temperature resistance and are less prone to cracking or damage from oil and chemicals. They often feature a spiral-wound or ferromagnetic core that provides lower resistance for a stronger spark and suppresses radio frequency interference (RFI) that can affect your radio. Brands that specialize in parts for classic Fords, such as Burton Power, Powerspark, and Magnecor, are excellent choices for a high-quality silicone wire set for the Kent engine.
Check Your Distributor Cap!
When ordering, pay close attention to the type of distributor cap on your engine. Some wire sets are designed for a standard "top-entry" cap where the wires plug into the top. Others are for a "side-entry" cap, which is often used on cars with dual carburetors to provide more clearance. Make sure the set you order matches your cap.
| Part | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Spark Plug Wire Set (Standard) | $30 - $60 |
| New Aftermarket Spark Plug Wire Set (Performance Silicone) | $60 - $120 |
| Shop Labor | $70 - $140 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my spark plug wires?
For a classic car like the Mk1 Escort, there is no set interval. It's best to inspect them during every tune-up. Replace them if you see any visible damage like cracks or burns, or if you are experiencing symptoms like misfiring. Modern silicone wires will last much longer than older-style rubber ones.
Will performance wires give my Escort more horsepower?
No, new wires will not create horsepower. However, if your old wires are failing, replacing them with a quality set can restore lost performance by ensuring a strong, consistent spark. The main benefit of performance wires is their superior durability and heat resistance.
What's the difference between 7mm, 8mm, and 8.5mm wires?
The measurement refers to the outer diameter of the wire's insulation. A thicker wire (like 8mm or 8.5mm) typically has more silicone insulation, making it more durable and resistant to heat and voltage leaks. The internal conductor is what really determines the spark quality.
Do I need special tools to replace spark plug wires?
No special tools are required. A set of spark plug wire pullers can be helpful to avoid damaging the boots, but you can usually remove them by hand with a firm twisting and pulling motion on the boot itself, not the wire. The most important thing is to replace the wires one at a time to ensure you don't mix up the engine's firing order.
Technical Specifications
Wire Diameter: 7mm (Standard), 8mm, 8.5mm (Performance) Core Type: Carbon (Standard), Spiral Wound / Ferromagnetic (Performance) Jacket Material: EPDM Rubber (Standard), Silicone (Performance) Distributor Cap Connection: Top-Entry or Side-Entry
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.