Chrysler Repair: Plug/Gap/Wire Followup, spark plug wire, gap size

Question
Roland,

I could not ask you more follow-ups on my previous question regarding gap size, but have 2 more regarding that for my '04 Sebring Sedan LX 2.4 DOHC.

1 - I replaced the wires also and notice that the engine is much more quiet.  On a hunch, I measured my plug wire resistance.  The new ones have slightly more resistance than the old ones with 85k (2.3k ohms vs 2.9k ohms).  Could this be the cause?  Should I put the old ones back on?  The service manual I have says the limit is 19k, so I am well under that either way.

2 - I noticed a small crack on the plastic component at the top of the cylinder (where the spark plug wire attaches to on top of the engine itself).  What is this component?  I think some oil or grease may have collected near it and may have caused it.  Is this an issue?

Answer
The '04 CD that I have says resistance max is 10.9k ohms.
It would be good to replace any spark wire 'stand-off insulator' that is cracked if it allows voltage to jump to the metal. Take a look under the hood tonight when it is dark and see if you see and arcing at that location of elsewhere which should be corrected.
Roland