Original 3X Spark Plugs

[Tom Wesenberg]

Why are some "3X" right on the edge of the metal base of the plug, while others are higher up on the porcelain? Are the centers a later part, or did a change happen in the location during the Model A years?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/192062081134?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Here's another one with the higher "3X", but the knurling doesn't look correct.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Model-A-For...ash=item4b0f3ab6fd:g:laAAAOSwal5YGiD-&vxp=mtr

 

[160B]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Model-A-Ford-Original-Champion-3X-Spark-Plug-Thick-Base-1928-1929-7009-/322378053373?hash=item4b0f3ab6fd:g:laAAAOSwal5YGiD-&vxp=mtr[/URL]

That is not an original Champion 3X base.

 

[Rancho Deluxe]

On the set of four, it looks like the inside copper washer or bushing is not installed.. If is was it would raise it up..

 

[TinCup]

I understood that on the original 3X plug the 3 had a flat top instead of a round top on the 3.

 

[msmaron]

Original plugs

 

[Brian T]

On the set of four, it looks like the inside copper washer or bushing is not installed.. If is was it would raise it up..

If the inside copper seal is missing, what would one do if they were, I have not seen any venders that have them.

 

[msmaron]

Early plug on LEFT 1/4 hex as per JS

 

[CarlG]

If the inside copper seal is missing, what would one do if they were, I have not seen any venders that have them.

I presume you are talking about the copper gasket that goes between the spark plug and the head:

http://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/spark-plug-gaskets

 

[DougVieyra]

How do the spark plugs pictured (as 'original') differ from the reproduction Champion XXX "Exact Duplicate" spark plugs that were made 30 to 40 years ago?

It might help some of those unfamiliar with the difference, to learn. I myself could use a 'refresher' course.

 

[160B]

I understood that on the original 3X plug the 3 had a flat top instead of a round top on the 3.

just the opposite

The original 3X plug, the 3 had a ROUND top.

The reproduction 3X plug, the 3 had a FLAT top.

 

[Charles Reese]

I presume you are talking about the copper gasket that goes between the spark plug and the head:

http://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/spark-plug-gaskets

My 2 cents ... possibly the one between the body and insulator (hidden when assembled).

I apologize I did not keep the source of these pix or i would give due credit!

 

[duke36]

I've been searching the posts to get opinions on a good plug for 5.5 head and 12 volt,FS ignition. Some say use the W18 Y which is now a Champion # 518 plug according to their website. The 3x is now available as a #429, see attached. Does it look close to the originals?

 

[msmaron]

I've been searching the posts to get opinions on a good plug for 5.5 head and 12 volt,FS ignition. Some say use the W18 Y which is now a Champion # 518 plug according to their website. The 3x is now available as a #429, see attached. Does it look close to the originals?

It does look "CLOSE" to the original, must have a copper gasket, and most won't notice the flat "3"....

 

[160B]

How do the spark plugs pictured (as 'original') differ from the reproduction Champion XXX "Exact Duplicate" spark plugs that were made 30 to 40 years ago?

It might help some of those unfamiliar with the difference, to learn. I myself could use a 'refresher' course.

Doug this flyer cover the shape of the top of the 3, the hex height and the knurling.



Flyer from a Champion 3X Spark Plug seminar put on by John Hash and Rich Street, MAFCA 2010 National Convention Vancouver BC.

 

[30ccpickup]

I researched the 3X plugs a few years ago and created drawings of the originals and the 429 (reproduction offered today)

http://modelabasics.com/3xplug.htm

I wish I would of added text to the drawings!!!

 

[msmaron]

originals

 

[CarlG]

I researched the 3X plugs a few years ago and created drawings of the originals and the 429 (reproduction offered today)

http://modelabasics.com/3xplug.htm

I wish I would of added text to the drawings!!!

It never ceases to amaze me of all the neat drawings/animations that Paul has created on his website.

Great job, Paul!

 

[Tom Wesenberg]

It never ceases to amaze me of all the neat drawings/animations that Paul has created on his website.

Great job, Paul!

X2 those are fantastic.

 

[DougVieyra]

Thank you ! 30ccpickup, for the answer to my question, and a wonderful education regarding how to tell the difference between an original and a reproduction Champion 3 X spark plug. The http://modelabasics.com/3xplug.htm website was a great explaination and goes a long way to re-inforce the old adage: "One picture is worth a thousand words".

Tom Wesenberg, post #18: "X2 those are fantastic"
---------------------
Tom, don't you mean 3X !

 

[30ccpickup]

Thanks!!!!