new plugs and wires. new radio noise!

[87blackroxi]

I replaced the plugs and wires a few days ago and when I turn on the radio there is a static noise. I hadn't noticed the past couple days because I had the radio on pretty loud. but when then radio is low there is a substantial static noise produced. Any ideas how to get rid of it?

 

[AdvancedAutoCC]

You didn't by chance use solid core wires did you? The proper wires to use are suppression core wires...solid cores create EMI (electromagnetic interference) that wreaks havoc with electronic devices.

 

[1stC3Vette]

What is the part number of the spark plug you used?


Dino

 

[74bigblock]

Shane,

There are certain plugs and wires that are designed to reduce electrical interfearence (most actually are this way). It's possible you replaced with plugs and/or wires that do not have the supression technology (Plugs have a resistor imbedded in them, and wires are braided core and specifically state they are supression wires).

Take a look at what you bought and as Dino suggested post the brand and model/part numbers and we can look for you.

Sounds like this little tune up project became a total PITA! Sux, but once you get it figured out you will know for next time.

Let us know!
Dave

 

[87blackroxi]

I'll check the box tonight for the part#. They are MSD wires. As to if they are for suppression I'll have to check. I'll let you guys know tomorrow.
shane

 

[87blackroxi]

Ok here's the box. MSD Ignition 40-50 ohms per foot of resistance. high EMI suppression abilities. "the lowest resistance and the highest EMI suppression".
It's an 8.5 mm wire. So where is the noise created. this wire is designed for low background noise.

 

[WhalePirot]

You reinstalled the grounded shield, of course?

We are assuming that the 'static' noise varies with engine speed.

 

[87blackroxi]

It does vary with car speed. I don't hear it at all at 4500 rpms:L . but seriously, yes it does vary. I can't figure it out. these wires are made for no noise.

 

[WhalePirot]

Vettes, being virtually totally non-metallic, have always been prone to this, due to the inherent minimal shielding from RF noise, and lessened grounding. Metal provides it; F-glass doesn't. Ensure every component, including the antenna, involved with the stereo is grounder well. Start with any area you just worked in.

Sometimes the noise can come from the alternator.
Every piece of shielding and the routing of wires is critical to prevent this noise, as is the choice of wires and plugs. After changing from the stock wires, I solved this by installing a noise 'kit' in the radio (and/or power amp) power feed. I believe it is just a small capacitor; being quite a long time ago. ANy car audio place or Rad** Sh*** should have it.

Otherwise, just drive it like a Por***e, with the revs UP.

 

[87blackroxi]

Will the noise kit apply to the stock bose system?

 

[ProEMTPFF]

I used to work for GE installing radios and for a car stereo sales and installation company. Anyway, if its not the plug wires odds are your alternator MAY be going bad. Take it to your local parts store and ask them to check your alternator out. If thats not it then I would suggest the noise reduction kit.

 

[Hib Halverson]

A couple of things I'd like to point out.

1) It was said that this radio noise varies with "vehicle speed". If this was an ignition noise supression issue, the noise would vary with engine speed not vehicle speed.

2) It was said in another post that Vettes are "virtually totally non-metallic". That is not correct. In fact, the vast majority of a Corvette is metallic. Only the body panels and some of the underbody structure are glass reinforced plastic or sheet molded compound. The rest of the car...the frame, parts of the suspension, the powertrain and parts of the car's structure are metal.

 

[74bigblock]

Ehhh.... just put some tape on it... it will be fine.

 

[87blackroxi]

Ehhh.... just put some tape on it... it will be fine.

??????????? what?

 

[74bigblock]

Sorry... I was intoxicated last night !

 

[WhalePirot]

Thanks for the eagle eye.

A couple of things I'd like to point out.

1) It was said that this radio noise varies with "vehicle speed". If this was an ignition noise supression issue, the noise would vary with engine speed not vehicle speed.

I took this as a wording issue; the author intending to say engine speed. I couldn't figure out how vehicle speed could cause radio whining.

2) It was said in another post that Vettes are "virtually totally non-metallic". That is not correct. In fact, the vast majority of a Corvette is metallic. Only the body panels and some of the underbody structure are glass reinforced plastic or sheet molded compound. The rest of the car...the frame, parts of the suspension, the powertrain and parts of the car's structure are metal.

It would have been more precisely worded if I had said the body and firewall are virtually non-metallic. These parts are what could shield the stereo components from RF emissions under the hood, as happens in real metal cars.

Explain how the radio is RF shielded with the frame, suspension and powertrain, etc., as this post seems to address.

Then, maybe a METAL tape IS the answer.