76 Buick spark plug cables

[Guest]

I have recently bought a '76 Electra Limited that the last owner says is absolutely original, right down to the spark plugs and cables. The cables are a dark beige colour with "PACKARD ELECTRONIC SUPPRESSION 8MM 3Q75" moulded in. Are these original for that year?

[NTX5467]

The wires, with their "3Q75" date code mean they were produced in the 3rd quarter of 1975, which would have positioned them for installation on the initial batch of 1976 vehicles. If they had been replaced, the date code would be different, reflecting a later date unless someone specifically looked for a NOS set, which is somewhat unlikely.

At that time the GM HEI system used 8mm outer diameter plug wires. Usually light gray with darker gray boots. Not sure about the color you mentnioned, though, unless some fading or aging has taken place.

Enjoy!

NTX5467

[rocketraider]

Indeed they are, unless someone went to an awful lot of trouble and e-bay to find a correct dated set. The 3Q75 is the giveaway. That's the date code- 3(rd) Q(uarter) 1975. The cables are usually dated either 1QXX or 3QXX for warranty and service campaign purposes, and the cars generally had cables made at least 1 quarter-year ahead of actual car build. 3Q75 would be correct for a 1976 Buick built between late Fall 1975 and Spring 1976.

Try wiping the cables with some WD40. It will clean off any grime and won't disturb the printed lettering. You may find they are actually gray.