V8 poor running in wet, HT lead?

I have a V8 too - and you might have answered your own question there. A lead shouldn't shock you if it's in good condition.

There must be a problem with the leads or the plugs because the spark should be easier to jump across the gap at the plug that it is to jump through the insulation of the leads. I also have a v8 with a high output coil (35000V) and i can hold the ignition leads whilst its running without getting a shock.

You could also check the earth strap to the engine just to make sure the engine is earthed correctly.

Hope this helps.

...and Landylover spake unto the tribes of Usenet, saying...

Try the same trick at night. If you can see the HT leads tracking, the leads are u/s.

I was hoping that someone could point the finger at something else, when I pay £75 of a set of leads I expect them to last longer than 2 years (7500 miles). Having said that though I think they have a 10 year guarantee so should in theory be able to get it replaced. Think I'll check out the distributor and rotor arm first and make sure the engine is earthed well.

Thanks Liam

...and Liam spake unto the tribes of Usenet, saying...

You could do the after-dark check now (8:52 pm), for nothing!