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Topic: Spark plugs

in Forum: C3 Engines

Spark plugs

Posted: 9/7/12 6:44pm Message 1 of 5
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Suffolk, VA - USA
Joined: 7/24/2012
Posts: 138
Vette(s): 1969 convertible 427 4speed
I have a set of autolite AP 404 spark plugs that were given to me by the previous owner of my 69 427 390hp. Has any one used these plugs? Would like to know if they are worth keeping for the next tune up


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Re: Spark plugs

Posted: 9/8/12 8:54am Message 2 of 5
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Frederick, MD - USA
Joined: 9/8/2003
Posts: 3398
Vette(s): 1969 convertible L71 427/435 4-speed black interior
I have AC spark plugs in my 427 but realistically, as long as the plug you use is of the right heat range for the application, it really shouldn't matter.  I know many have their own favorites for spark plugs, the fact remains they are all designed to do the same job.

Unless your car has modifications such as cylinder head work, cam changes, etc., whatever meets factory specs is fine.  There's no need to use exotic (read that as expensive) spark plug designs with a stock ignition system.  You'll only make the parts manufacturer richer and see no gain in performance.

As I said, if the Autolite spark plugs are the correct application and heat range, there's no reason not to use them.  Getting them for free is a bonus.



Re: Spark plugs

Posted: 9/8/12 12:05pm Message 3 of 5
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Manteca, CA - USA
Joined: 11/20/2005
Posts: 3623
Vette(s): 1978,two tone,Metalic Rootbeer & gold 1975 L48 4 speed
 Them's my senaments azackly Thumbs Up.


Re: Spark plugs

Posted: 9/15/12 8:25am Message 4 of 5
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Overland Park, KS - USA
Joined: 7/9/2003
Posts: 914
Vette(s): 1973 Orange Metallic Coupe (orig owner), L82, 4 spd (WR), PS, (A/C & PW (I installed from wrecked 73)), leather, AM/FM Stereo, ran with '65 FI unit earlier & will again some day. 2023 Accelerate Yellow HTC Stingray
I agree that w/ our vintage engines, the right heat range is the most important feature but when the mfgs went to EFI, I found that I got the best results w/ the OEM recommended plugs.

For instance, I found that my engine ran best w/ one heat range hotter and w/ a projected tip.



1973 L-82 4 spd

Re: Spark plugs

Posted: 9/15/12 8:42am Message 5 of 5
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Suffolk, VA - USA
Joined: 7/24/2012
Posts: 138
Vette(s): 1969 convertible 427 4speed
I am in the process of getting a tune up and my mechanic will only use ac delco plugs. He is installing the rapidfire # 4. The autolites did not cost me anything, so I will keep them for a late time.


in Forum: C3 Engines


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