When to replace the coil to spark plug connectors?

[harobe]

I went to replace my spark plugs and every chamber was filled with oil. So, I am ordering the valve cover gaskets but I dont know how to determine when to replace the coil to spark plug connectors.
Any guidelines on this? My car is a 1995 325i with 220,000 miles.
Before, I got it at around 160,000 they did a valve cover gasket replacement according to a copy of the bill given to me.
Thanks!

[Turbohugh]

I think physical damage is the only reason to have to replace them, (the little seals can deteriorate). Other than a quick Ohm check I cant see any other reason for replacement. I hit mine with some carb cleaner/gum cutter and some wd40 and put them back in.

[harobe]

Originally Posted by Turbohugh

I think physical damage is the only reason to have to replace them, (the little seals can deteriorate). Other than a quick Ohm check I cant see any other reason for replacement. I hit mine with some carb cleaner/gum cutter and some wd40 and put them back in.

Thanks for your thoughts!

[Lord Vader]

I agree with Turbo. As far as i can tell the coil packs in my E36 are still original OEM. When i changed the spark plugs I inspected them, and again when I did the VCG I inspected them as well and they seemed fine. I still get a good spark. The boots will wear out faster then the packs though, which is good considering how expensive the packs are.

Unless you start getting a missfire I wouldnt bother replacing the coil packs.

[Turbohugh]

I would check the ground strap if you a misfire code .. Usually the coils on each end have a braided strap that can corrode or degrade over time.

Second thing I would do is use a little dielectric grease on the coil insulators. The rubber i those pieces should not be cracked , dry-rotted, or damaged however the silicone grease can help preserve them and help suppress arching that may occur (dielectric grease acts as an insulator).. The grease will also make it easier to remove the spark plugs once its time for replacement.

I treated my coils to a blast of electrical component cleaner followed by a quick spray of WD-50 .. I did have a misfire code on one cylinder but I havnet seen it after servicing my coils and changing the plugs.