Expert: Brad Sears - 12/5/2007

Question
Mr Sears,
Can you tell me where I can buy parts for antique autolite ignitions?  I need new points, cap, and rotor for my 1928 Gramm firetruck (it is a 6 volt negative ground).  Also... is there a way I can boost the spark to my spark plugs easily without going to a 12 volt system?   I tried an 8 volt battery and it ran a lot better with the higher voltage but it burned out my light bulbs and my generator would not charge the battery. I was thinking about trying one of those   6 volt flamethrower coils from Pertronix.  They advertise 40,000 volts delivered to the spark plugs... Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks Jim

Answer
I have ALWAYS been able to get an engine, if it was in good condition, to run well on the stock ignition. The 8 volt battery idea is a disaster as you have already pointed will burn out bulbs and the charging system will not work. I would get the ignition parts that you need I am sure that if you do as suggested below you will find your parts. My standard answer to any question that starts with "where can I find.." or "I am trying to find..." is to get hooked up with Hemmings Motor news. It is the leading classified ad book for the old car hobby. Check them out at www.hemmings.com.
Brad