Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

Hi,Guys,

Service time again and I would like to know your recommendations for modern spark plugs to use in my 34 1103.
Hopefully they will be of a type I can buy in the UK.

Thanks

Terry

Don't know how readily they're available in the UK but try for Autolite 303. The correct heat range, 14mm, plain black oxide shell as originals, and if you have the correct high tension wires with the eyelet, the nipple unthreads for the knurled threaded thumbscrew.

Incidently, the correct high tension wires for 33 and 34 Eights and Super Eights were covered in silver/gray lacquered cloth. The correct wire is available in bulk from Restoration Supply or Restoration Specialties but you'll have to improvise a bit on the eyelets, the OEM style is NLA. Eyelets at both ends, over the spark plug post (under the thumbscrew) and under the large flathead screw on the distributor cap.

Dave,
I can get Autolite 295 which is a non resistor plug and 306 which have a resistor.
Should I go for a resistor or non resistor type?

Thanks

Terry

Terry, if you don't have a radio I'd go with the non-resistor. If you have a radio and already have resistor high tension wires, I'd go with the non-resistor. If you have a radio and have conventional (copper-core) high tension wires I'd go with a resistor plug if good radio performance is important to you.

Resistor-type high tension wires can (and often do) have a shorter service life than copper-core wire, especially if they have repeating handling. Since I don't use the radio in my 34 I lean towards the best service life and least resistance in both wires and plugs but you'll certainly get reasonable performance with either resistor plugs or resistor wiring - but both together is not the best choice.

EYELETS were available from Cole Ignition 585-342-9613(New York). Havent purchased any for a few yrs - hope there still around. Also on the SP end there was a 3/8 lg black rubber BOOT - Heavy Wall shrink tubing does the trick. Think Cole sold the wire also and if i remember u could order a made up set. Orig. lengths r called out in the Parts Book.

I,ll go with the no resistor type. I also don,t use the radio.
Thanks Packardbarry for the other info.
Terry