Subject: Resistive Ignition Cables

     I have tried a variety of cables and, like many hams, found 
considerable variation in performance, reliability and suppression.  
My favorite cables were made by a company called Whitaker, but I 
believe they are no longer in business.  I like both NGK and 
American Standard wires, and they are still available at many auto 
supply shops.  One of my Subaru's now has a set of Beck Arnold cables 
that has performed very well for almost a year.

     One rule of thumb that I found is that any wires that are 
made of carbon do not last.  They initially have good suppression 
qualities and are cheap, but I can't recommend them.  Others use 
resistance wire, probably NiChrome or similar, wrapped around a 
core.  These are more expensive, but worth the money in my 
opinion.  Some of the ones I've tried, though, seem to have 
somewhat less suppression than others.  In all cases I found 
engine performance and longevity to be good.  

     There is a company in California, I believe it's called 
Jacobs Ignition (The owner is a Dr. Jacobs), that publishes a 
book on ignition systems.  You will see them at many auto shows.  
I recall that it is called *The Doctor on Ignitions*, or something 
like that.  The Doctor produces wires and ignition computers.  
I found that these were good quality but expensive.  I also had 
some trouble with the boots coming off, too.  ACCell is another 
company that caters to the high performance buffs.  That make a 
variety of wires available at speed shops.  Be careful though.  
I believe it is now illegal to use non-suppression cables on a 
public roadway.  Performance buffs use them for off road racing.

     There are also several different suppression techniques that 
companies use in their ad hype.  I've seen such jargon such as 
"magnetic suppression" and the like on more expensive cables, but 
the ads are always a little skimpy on explanation and substance.

     Cables can be checked for resistance with a simple ohmmeter.  
Another useful test requires only a good observant eye and a dark 
night.  Be sure to allow plenty if time for night vision to set 
in, then pop the hood with the engine is running.  Carefully look 
for signs of arcing or corona.  I've seen some real light shows 
on occasion, an obvious sign that the wires need replacement.

     Finally, many of the better wires are guaranteed for the 
life of the vehicle.  These can be obtained at Auto Supply Shops, 
are usually good quality, and include some of the names that I've 
mentioned.  They usually only last a few years before I change 
them, but the quality is better.

     One thing I would like to try is using cables for small 
airplanes in my car.  Whitaker used to make them, but I am not 
sure now who is in the business.  (I recall seeing Whitaker 
wires on a Heath(kit) airplane on display at the Lexington, KY 
airport!)

73,
Mike Gruber, WA1SVF, ARRL Laboratory Engineer

(Check Whitaker Cable Corp., 2801 Rockcreek Pky., North Kansas City, MO,
 64116, Tel: 816-474-0300)

