I believe there's only one "hot ticket" when it comes to the service and repair of a stock engine: use what the factory recommends...exactly, right down to the brand, heat range and part number. If your motor came with Autolite spark plugs of a certain part number, use them. You may have to do some research to find out which exact brand and part number were used, but it will be time well spent. Cross-over parts will work, of course, but why not keep the motor exactly as the factory built it. The factory spent a lot of time, talent and money getting the most performance and efficiency out of the motors they build, so why not take advantage of their expertese. Just my $.02
It's pretty hard to beat Autolite/Motorcraft quality,you could go Autolite Platinum as an upgrade while you are at it insist on Autolite/Motorcraft oil filters too.And if you are running a flat tappet Cam use the Motorcraft diesel 15W40 ZDDP is 1355 ppm,5 quart jug at Wally-World is about $15.
Keep in mind, Autolite is (or was, last I heard) Allied Signal, Motorcraft is Ford. I'm a big fan of Motorcraft spark plugs, filters and oil for Fords. Back when I was parts mgr (Ford) in a small town I stocked M/C plugs & filters for all makes and thanks to my jobber & several other small town dealers we'd pool our orders and I could compete with the parts houses on price. Nowadays if I can't find M/C filters I use Wix or NAPA, and Autolite plugs if no M/C.
The Jalopy Journal
