Parts for your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero-Ignition leads

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero ignition leads — what they are, and when they’re used

Based on Mitsubishi factory workshop manuals for the first‑generation Pajero (L040 series, 1982–1991) and independent repair references such as the Haynes Pajero/Montero/Shogun manuals, ignition leads are fitted to the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero when it’s a petrol model (e.g., the 4G54 2.6‑litre inline‑four and, in some markets late in the model year, the early 6G72 3.0‑litre V6). These engines run a coil‑and‑distributor ignition system with high‑tension leads feeding the spark plugs. Diesel variants from the same year (notably the 4D55/4D56) use compression ignition with glow plugs and therefore do not have ignition leads. Those diesel systems are documented in Mitsubishi diesel engine workshop manuals as using a glow‑plug harness rather than spark wiring.

For petrol 1987 Pajero owners, ignition leads do a deceptively simple but vital job: they channel high voltage from the distributor to each spark plug at precisely the right moment so the engine fires cleanly. Over time, heat, oil mist, vibration and age can harden the insulation and increase resistance, leading to rough idle, hesitation under load, flat spots, and poorer fuel economy.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the leads under the bonnet every service interval. Look for cracks, hardening, oil contamination, loose boots, and any signs of arcing (white tracking marks). A quick night check with the engine running can reveal stray sparks. If you have a multimeter, compare lead resistance like‑for‑like, you’re mainly hunting for outliers rather than chasing a single magic number—always defer to the workshop manual for specs.

Replacement is straightforward but method matters. Swap one lead at a time to avoid mixing up positions, and route the new leads in the factory clips away from hot exhaust bits. A light smear of dielectric grease at the boots helps sealing and future removal. Choose quality silicone‑insulated leads from a reputable brand, they cope better with heat and off‑road use common to Pajeros. If the engine’s been misfiring, pair new leads with fresh plugs gapped to spec for a proper reset. Many owners treat leads as a 60,000–100,000 km or 5–7 year item, sooner if there’s heavy off‑road, towing, or frequent heat‑soak. After deep‑water crossings or engine bay washing, make sure leads and boots are dry before driving off.

If the vehicle is a diesel 1987 Pajero, there are no ignition leads to maintain—attention instead goes to the glow plugs and their wiring.

• Key symptoms of tired leads: misfires under load, rough idle, increased fuel use, visible arcing/tracking, and a ticking snap noise at night.
• Key care tips: keep them clean and dry, avoid yanking on the cable (pull by the boot), and replace as a set if one is failing.

Do diesel 1987 Pajeros have ignition leads?
Diesel 4D55/4D56 models don’t use ignition leads. They rely on compression ignition and a glow‑plug system with a simple harness. If there are thick plug wires running from a distributor to the cylinder head, it’s a petrol model, if not, you’re looking at a diesel.

How often should ignition leads be replaced on a 1987 Pajero petrol?
Many owners replace them every 60,000–100,000 km or 5–7 years, sooner if there are misfires, visible cracking, or high resistance readings. Off‑road heat and vibration can shorten service life, so inspect at each service.

What are the signs my ignition leads need changing?
Common tell‑tales include a stumble on acceleration, rough idle, harder starting when damp, increased fuel consumption, and visible arcing in the dark. If one lead is failing, it’s usually wise to replace the full set.