ACDelco ignition parts - distributor cap

[dmitch31]

I was reading on the old forum how people frequently had problems with the engine running rough and the cause was very often the distributor cap. It seems that people who purchased an off-brand distributor cap and rotor wound up having to replace it a year later.

Well, now I'm in that same situation. I got to the point where my van wouldn't even start. So, one day, I took the doghouse off, took the distributor cap off, and found each contact in there had quite a build up of white cakey stuff on it. So, I just took a little dremel wire brush and buffed them all off. It seemed to help quite a bit.

However, I still have the same problem with rough running, particularly when it is really damp and rainy outside. Now, I know that this was all replaced about a year ago from the guy I bought the van from, but he used off brand parts. Also, when I had the distributor cap off, I had to take off 3 wires from one side of the cap. I looked at the wire contacts on the inside of the boot, and noticed that there was actually some light rust forming on them! Now, I don't have any idea how THAT would have happened. The wires are in excellent shape (like new) and the boots were very tight. Anyhow, no matter. It looks like I am going to have to replace distributor cap, rotor, and wires before I get the van running tip top again. On the old forum, the comment mentioned was to only buy ACDelco parts in this regard. So my question is, forgive me for being green, but where do I go to buy ACDelco parts? Do I have to go to the dealer, or do some of the chain auto parts carry them? I've never gone out in search of a particular brand before, but if the ACDelco stuff will fix my problem, then that's what I want to get.

I'd also be interested in any recommendation on spark plug wires. I was also wondering if it might not be a good time to replace the coil as well. My van is a 1999 with 165,000 miles on it. The coil looks like it's seen better days. I know looks don't necessarily mean anything, but I just figured that perhaps as a preventive it might be good to go ahead and replace it. Of course, as an enthusiast, I would prefer to replace it with something better than original equipment! Any recommendations in that regard would be appreciated.

I just don't understand how moisture got inside the boots to cause the contacts on the end of the wire to rust. That is just weird.

So, I guess my question is:
Where do I go to get ACDelco parts?
What recommendations does anyone have regarding a replacement coil?
What recommendations does anyone have regarding spark plug wires?

Thanks,
Dave

[AstroAustin]

Are you using any of that spark plug grease? That can really help keep the plug connections good putting some of that paste in the boots before you connect them. Also I do recommend AC Delco parts in this situation. Sometimes the other brands just don't seal up well to keep moisture out.

[Matrixx]

Hi dmitch31
I don't know where you live, but up here in Canada (BC), you can buy the AC Delco parts at Lordco. Any GM or Chev Dealership in your area will have the parts you need but may be a bit more money for them, but well worth it I feel. AC Delco Cap and Rotor, Wires if you prefer but I like the MSD 8.5 Mil wires myself. If your interested here is the link:
http://www.msdignition.com/wire_1.htm

As for the coil, I use the MSD blaster Coil and have for about 4-years now with good success (Reliable) In Hot or cold conditions. Here is that link if your interested:
http://www.msdignition.com/coil_blaster_10_8231.htm
Important: This link states 96-97 coil type, check and make sure your coil has the same connector types (it should). Or you can use the AC Delco coil as well, these are the only 2 Coils I will personally recommend.

I would recommend you replacing the plugs as well if your going to go all out. AC Delco Platinums-Bosch Platinums or what I use now and recommend is the NGK TR55 IX Iridiums. Very nice plugs to use but pricey, it's your choice, you won't go wrong with any 3. Some people may have a difference of opinion but I have ran all 3 with no problems personally. Might I also suggest you replace your fuel filter as well (very important item to maintain). I replace mine every 3 or 4 months. Hope this information helps.

[active1951]

Aftermarket is OK, in fact intructions in a aftermarket cap told me about a flaw with some of these GM distributors. Mine is a 2003 plastic base distributor with holes to let moisture out, well there are small screens in the holes that get plugged. Take out screens and no more problems.
Your 1999 might be metal base without holes, check it out anyway. Also some air conditioner lines are too close to distributor causing condescation.
Be sure to keep coil wire away from grounding parts such as trans dipstick tube, I even put a cover over coil wire(plastic or old hose) to keep tha pesky spark from jumpin off coil wire, major problem with these vans.