Spark Plug Gap

Today I took the time to set my spark plug gap to .040. After some research it seemed to be a consensus for those running the Pertronix Ignitor and Flamethrower. I was extremely surprised to find that the spark plugs (Champion H10s) were not even close to uniform in their default gap. According to my gap tool, they ranged from .025 to .040 right out of the box. I set them all to .040, put them back in, started the car, and it runs. I am not sure if I will notice a difference, but I am sure every little bit helps.

Next Project: Oil Filter Kit by Walt Mordenti

As most of you know, Walt Mordenti is a bit of a legend in the Hudson community. My next project will be to install his external oil filter kit. It should help cool the oil while keeping it clean and helping the engine last longer. Currently my 308 has no oil filter on it, and the oil was black after only a couple thousand miles.

Here is the kit. it comes with absolutely everything needed and a nice instruction sheet that makes the install seem like it will be a snap.

Here is where it will mount. Wish me luck :o)

Installing electronic ignition system

I ordered a Pertronix Ignitor to replace my points and a Pertronix Flame-Thrower coil with the intention to install them myself. It was not terrible, but not as easy as I had hoped for.I also put in new spark plugs (Champion H10s) and new plug wires.

The Ignitor kit I used for my 12V negative ground systems was the 1362.

Here is a picture of the distributor with the points removed. You can still see the condenser on the left. I was later removed. The only real trouble with the install is the little L shaped plate on the right with the screw in it. To install the system, the rivets on the L bracket need to be drilled and removed to make room for the Ignitor module. I did this with the distributor in place, but I would recommend anyone looking at doing this to take it out first.

Here is a picture of the Distributor with the Pertronix Ignitor installed.

Here is a pictures of the new coil and distributor all buttoned up. I might just be in my head, but I really do think it runs better and definitely idles smoother.

Here is the discussion in the Hudson Forum

Taking care of the basics

I worked with one of my local mechanics to do a lot of basic needed work on the Hornet.

• Complete Brake Job (new master cylinders, new wheel cylinders, new hoses, new brake pads, turned drums, and a total flush of all lines)
• Oil Change (10W-40)
  
• Lube Job, using the manual to find all the right spots
• Replaced Fuel Pump (the oil had smelled a little of gas)
  
• Replace Exhaust/Intake gasket (the old one was leaking badly)
• Replaced inline fuel filter
• Replaced control arm bushings
  
• Filled up rear end (I need to order and replace the gasket)

All this was not cheap, but I feel much better about future of the car :)