Topic: Autolite spark plug air cleaner decal - 1965

[Goosebrau]

Hello all. My first post on the site.

I just finished my engine bay project on my May 1965 A-code Dearborn Convertible, 5F08A736023.

I've read multiple threads, posted to restoration groups, questioned parts shops, etc. I'm clearly puzzled on the Autolite Spark Plug decal. I've read it matters on the assembly plant, the engine code, early vs. late 1965, decal inventory, and even the specific employee that put the decal(s) on any given day. A fun algorithm indeed for folks that want it "correct".

I own the book "Collector's Originality Guide Mustang 1964 1/2-1966" by Colin Date. For 1965, there are some engine photos that show the rectangle and curved decal. I've attached them below.

The stacked engine photos are stated as C-Codes, showing both the curved decal on top of the air cleaner lid, and the rectangle decal placed on the driver's side of air cleaner pot.

The single photo caption states it is an A-Code and is showing the curved autolite spark plug decal on the top of the lid.

The vast majority of people are telling me to place this decal on the driver's side air cleaner pot, including my restoration shop (Mustang Restorations). But several have told me otherwise, much like these book photos.

My last bit of input is conflicting parts retailers. For example, CJ Pony Parts says the rectangle decal is for a 65-67 6 cylinder here https://www.cjponyparts.com/jim-osborn-reproductions-decal-air-cleaner-autolite-spark-plug-6-cylinder-1965-1967/p/DEC352/, while they show the curved version for V8 engines here https://www.cjponyparts.com/jim-osborn-reproductions-decal-air-cleaner-autolite-spark-plug-v8-1965-1967/p/DEC160/.

Kentucky Mustang shows the same.

Any help would be appreciated. I'm perseverating on this single sticker.

Thank you,
Steve

[carlite65]

i would not trust CJ Pony's info. now have you looked in the library section here specifically at the unrestored photos? if not then that would be your next step.

[J_Speegle]

Welcome to the site. Hope you find the information and support your looking for to help you with your concours related projects.

Since your new I guess you might not be familiar with the now being able to see and read all of the site. For your particular questions it has been posted before - and the search with some work would have helped there. Another source is the collection of unrestored cars shown in individual threads in the Unrestored picture section of the site. You will find it on the big main page near the bottom after all the individual Mustang sections by year

As far as sources books can often be dated with their information and may rely a lot on restored examples rather than original ones. As far as vendors you need to remember that many are focused on what they have that they can sell (not all of them) not always what was original.


Here are a few prior threads that might help answer your question. Location of the decals IMO would not differ between C or A code during this time period but they could differ depending on what plant (workers) were and their supply.

Thread with pictures from one of the cars in the Unrstored Picture Threads of a car likely built just before your car

https://www.concoursmustang.com/forum/index.php?topic=14857.msg92612#msg92612

Here is an additional picture from one of the unrestored picture thread - Car built likely a bit after yours

EC3-