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 :)

Back at it

My last day at IBM is the 31st, and I am actually quite optimistic about the future. I will get some severance, I have a 5 month contract job lined up, and I have a few prospects for full time work in WI. With permission from my wife (I think she is taking pity on me) I am moving forward with mechanical work on the Hudson. Brakes, exhaust manifold gasket leak, and electronic ignition are on the lists. Dual exhaust is just off the list and I hope to somehow get it on. Also on hold is the interior work. Technically the interior is not on hold, but my upholsterer believes he has a line on true matching fabric, and it is taking a very long time to validate that and get it rolling.

A Bump in the Road

I find myself in the unenviable position of being part of an IBM resource action (layoffs) so; I am seeking a new job and the Hudson is on hold. I have a BS in Computer Science and a Masters in Business in addition to nearly a decade of work experience ranging from technical consulting, education, program management, and relationship management. You can learn more details about me here www.MichaelJSandberg.info

If you are aware of any opportunities, please let me know.

Michael J. Sandberg www.MichaelJSandberg.info

Dreaming of Spring

It is now mid February and today I backed the Hudson out of the garage to sweep it out. My wife's car has been depositing snow in the garage that slowly formed a pool of water that I could no longer ignore.

I now have the replacement glass for the drivers side window and rear passenger window along with all new window channel for all four windows. The glass guy came took a look at it in my garage and said he could do the work while it is in the upholstery shop. It is my hope to get it into the upholsterer in the next couple of weeks. I have enough money to start the upholstery and a perfect match for the vinyl. Lyle (the upholsterer) has a few places left to check for fabric, but I have a feeling we will have to settle for the near match from SMS. At this point we don't have any money for the brakes, wood grain metal, and engine work (exhaust gasket, oil leaks, etc. ). To try and drum up some cash for the car I am trying a side business, "Michael's Computer Services ". Wish me luck, it will all go into the Hudson.