I am currently on a business trip in US. Yesterday I went to O'Reilly to get some spark plugs for my 1970 455 Stage1. Currently AC Delco R43TS are installed and everything works fine. So I wanted to get the same plugs as spares. The guy behind the counter said his system tells him that I should get R45-plugs. What do you think? Should I stick with the R43TS (never change a winning team) or go with the recommendation from O'Reilly?
R-45 will work just fine. Also check the NGK plugs, they come recommended by a good number of folks on here.
The best plug for any engine is the coldest plug that does not foul. If your R43TS plugs are looking good when you remove them, stick with it. If you want to try an NGK plug, get the UR-5. It will be very close to an R43TS. The UR-4 is like an R45TS.
Thank you guys, I will stick with the R43. Other subject: The flexible hose from exhaust manifold to aircleaner in my car is black. I was looking for a replacement, but neither O'Reilly, nor autozone carry those (only universal silver ones). Is that a part I need to get from classic car specialists like year one? Overall I was a little disapointed with my shopping experience at O'Reilly and Autozone. My reference is the Murray's which I had around the corner 15 years ago. Plenty of aisles with everything imaginable. Yesterday I was unsuccessful in trying to buy pipe stuff (adapters for oil-sensors). The auto parts stores didnot carry that stuff and at Homedepot I got confused as I did not find a "NPT", only "MPT". Is that the same?
MPT is the same thing I believe. Yes, I like the black preheater hose myself. Here it is on Ebay, https://www.ebay.com/i/272219592025?chn=ps
Thanks Larry, it is amazing what one can find in the internet, when he knows the technical term for the "Thing" he is looking for
The parts business has changed a lot in 15 years. Many US manufacturers have moved out (you’re lucky if you find Canada or Mexico) and have responded to customers’ demands of ‘cheaper cheaper cheaper!’ by sourcing from third world countries. Also, efficiency experts, product planners, consultants and such have not just cheapened the product but have marginalized the non-mainstream part of the business. The people who make the business decisions aren’t car people or even parts people, they’re accountants. If a part isn’t an ‘A’ mover in the market, you’re lucky they make it at all. Same with 14” and 15” tires. And they’ve ruined the catalogs-lots of pictures on line, but no trustworthy info because it’s all cross referenced from data entered by foreign typists copying from each other. It’s the future, where Tommy Callahan’s idiot grandson sold Callahan Auto Parts to Dorman, as did his bro, Ray (Tray) Zalinski III. Patrick
Got all my stuff, thanks again. Homedepot actually calls the fittings MIP and FIP (I probably had some jet lag last night that I was not able to read properly). It is to late now to get the preheater hose, as it will not arrive before my departure. I put that on my list for my next visit.
Thought I'd share my source for a black hose: I got one from summit racing for 10.99 US$ It fits perfect and looks great. Will post picture once aircleaner is installed.
Over the years all stores carry less and less of these little parts we need. Try to find a good brass 5/8" hose tee in the store, or even a hose hose clamp that doesnt strip out b4 it gets tight
