1981 Ford Thunderbird Ignition and Tune-Up Products

Essential 1981 Ford Thunderbird Ignition and Tune-Up Products

Motorcraft – Ignition Coil: Meets or Exceeds Original Equipment Specifications, 1 Piece (Part No.DG-529)

Ignition Coil: Meets or Exceeds Original Equipment Specifications, 1 Piece

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$81.99
The only parts recommended by Ford Motor Company for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles. Motorcraft and Ford Parts are used throughout Ford vehicles in a variety of applications that help ensure the proper build quality, integrity and long-lasting performance of every Ford car or truck. Motorcraft and Ford Parts are manufactured from first quality materials chosen specifically for maximum performance and application suitability. As with all Motorcraft and Ford Parts, any innovations or improvements developed since the vehicle’s manufacture are included in these after market replacement parts, ensuring the most current technology and performance.

Product Features:
  • These coils provide the exact spark timing that helps maximize the engine and emissions performance
  • RFI suppression helps minimize electronic noise through a Ford patented spring assembly inside the coil boot
  • Engineered to help withstand temperature extremes
  • Internal insulation displacement connection is helps make high-reliability internal connections
  • Interior insulation helps ensure no internal arcing
  • Right fit for each application; helps provide ease of installation and removal
  • High grade silicone rubber boot materials do not degrade or stick, aiding in environmental and dielectric sealing
  • Housings engineered to help resist cracking in the most extreme conditions
  • Ford-patented iron core lamination stack integrates rare earth magnets in the flux circuit to help deliver consistent high energy required for output
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Accel – 8Mm Super Stock Spiral Uni Rd (Part No.5040R)

8Mm Super Stock Spiral Uni Rd

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$101.99
The traditional ACCEL combination of yellow wire and red spark plug boots has been added to these SuperStock Spiral Core 5000 Series wire sets, which feature color-matched wire and spark plug boots in blue, black, and red. With only 500 ohms/ft. of resistance, more ignition energy can reach the spark plug, producing a longer-lasting, hotter spark flame kernel. The results is higher performance through improved efficiency, quicker throttle response, and reduced emissions. This 8mm wire’s double silicone construction is rated to 550 degrees F. The high-gloss wire jacket resists moisture, chemicals, and heat extremes for longer life and great looks. The fiberglass braid adds greater pull strength and terminal retention, while the stainless steel spark plug terminals provide excellent long life, electrical conductivity, and corrosion resistance. Both universal and custom-fit applications are available for early and late model cars and trucks.

Product Features:
  • 500 Ohms/ft Of Resistance
  • 550 F Rated Silicone Jacket
  • Stainless Steel Plug Terminals
  • High RFI Suppression For Street And Strip Use
  • Universal And Import Coverage
  • High-strength Fiberglass Braid Construction
  • Pre And Post HEI Vehicles
  • 8mm High Gloss Silicone Jacket
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NGK – OE Series V-Power Nickel Spark Plug: V-Groove Tip Design, UR5 (Part No.2771)

OE Series V-Power Nickel Spark Plug: V-Groove Tip Design, UR5

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$4.99
NGK V-Power spark plugs offer reliable performance and improved ignitability over standard nickel plugs. Engineered specifically for OE applications, the special V-cut nickel alloy center electrode and concave ground electrode of NGK’s V-Power spark plug increases ignitability providing quicker starts and smoother idle. NGK’s legendary high grade alumina silicate ceramic creates a stronger insulator for optimal dielectric performance. Trivalent metal plating ensures superior anti-corrosion and anti-seizing properties.

Product Features:
  • ACTUAL OE or EQUIVALENT DESIGN: OEM quality construction nickel alloy center electrode with V-groove provides consistent performance
  • RECOMMENDED USAGE: Best for vehicles with OE nickel alloy plugs, not recommended on vehicles with factory precious metal plugs
  • NGK’s OE CERAMIC TECHNOLOGY: High grade alumina silicate ceramic creates a stronger insulator for optimal dielectric performance
  • SOLID COPPER CORE: 98% pure copper core offers superior heat dissipation, conductivity and ultra wide heat ranges
  • COLD-ROLLED THREADS: Prevents cross-threading and damage to cylinder heads
  • TRIVALENT METAL PLATING: Delivers superior anti-corrosion and anti-seizing properties, ensuring ease of installation and removal
  • Enhanced Ignitability: The V-cut nickel alloy center electrode and concave ground electrode design of NGK V-Power spark plugs provide quicker starts and smoother idle.
  • OE Application Specific: Engineered specifically for Original Equipment (OE) applications, ensuring compatibility and reliable performance.
  • V-Groove Tip Design: The unique V-Groove tip design of the UR5 model enhances ignitability and overall engine performance.
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Carquest – Air Charge Temperature Sensor Connector (Part No.PT5749)

Air Charge Temperature Sensor Connector

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$27.49
BWD is an aftermarket leader, providing a premium line of engine management products. BWD manufactures and distributes high technology critical components for late model domestic and import vehicles. BWD is constantly evolving to give customers the competitive edge they need to compete in today’s ever-changing marketplace.

Product Features:
  • Our ignition coils use 100% pure copper windings in the primary and secondary bobbins to improve durability and provide higher resistance to internal shorts and dielectric breakdown
  • Our premium ignition coils consist of a special blended formula for the best performance, longest life and better heat dissipation
  • A full E-Lam core of silicon steel and solid brass high voltage terminals protects against corrosion. Our ignition coils are built for maximum output voltage
  • Primary and Secondary windings feature enamel magnet wire for the highest temperature rating in the aftermarket
  • BWD is a global manufacturer of original equipment ignition products, complete quality control is maintained through the manufacturing process from componentry to finished product
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Driveworks – Distributor Rotor (Part No.23067)

Distributor Rotor

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$11.05
Driveworks offers a line of aftermarket parts and accessories that are commercially acceptable and competitively priced, which provides professional technicians and DIYers with an affordable alternative for repairs.

Product Features:
  • Direct-fit OE replacement ensures ease of installation
  • Designed to meet OE performance
  • As the leader in commercially acceptable parts, we provide professional technicians with the quality parts they need
  • As the leader in commercially acceptable parts, we provide professional technicians with the quality parts they need
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Carquest Premium – Distributor Check Valve (Part No.ECA1336)

Distributor Check Valve

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$24.99
CARQUEST premium engine management products provide the right automatic transmission speed sensor for a wide range of domestic and import applications. Delivering the highest performance and durability under demanding conditions. Designed to meet OE quali

Product Features:
  • Lifecycle tested to meet or exceed OE specifications
  • Direct OE replacement
  • High strength thermoplastic is resistant to shock, temperature and chemicals. Also protects internal components from moisture and contaminants.
  • Global coverage for import and/or domestic applications.
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Accel – Universal Fit 300+ Race Spark Plug Wire Set (Part No.7040)

Universal Fit 300+ Race Spark Plug Wire Set

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$176.99
The oversized 8.8mm wire features a double silicone construction rated at over 600 F and 60kV. High gloss black silicone wire jacket not only looks great, but resists heat extremes, petrochemicals, ozone and moisture better than so-called blended materials for greater durability and longer life. High-density, high-temperature silicone insulation provides greater dielectric strength and eliminates arcing and the effects of corona better than typical OE style rubber materials. All-Kevlar stranded inner core and fiberglass braiding add greater pull strength and terminal retention. Stainless steel and brass terminals provide unsurpassed electrical conductivity and excellent corrosion resistance compared to terminals made of common or plated metals.

Product Features:
  • 150 Ohms/ft Of Resistance
  • 600 F Rated Silicone Jacket
  • Stainless Steel Plug Terminals
  • Custom-fit Universal And Import Coverage
  • Pre And Post HEI Vehicles
  • Spiral-Wound Copper/Nickel Alloy
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Carquest – Distributor Ignition Pickup (Part No.ME48)

Distributor Ignition Pickup

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$43.99
High-quality products that meet OE appearance and performance to provide professional technicians and DIYers with a cost-effective solution.

Product Features:
  • Designed to OE standards for ease of installation
  • High temperature enameled wires were specified for better insulation and performance
  • With industry leading expertise in electronic ignition, when original equipment fails our products are designed to fix the inherent failure issues
  • BWD is a global manufacturer of original equipment ignition products, complete quality control is maintained through the manufacturing process from componentry to finished product
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MSD Ignition – Distributor Gear; Ford; 302; Iron (Part No.85832)

Distributor Gear; Ford; 302; Iron

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$42.49
This gear test fixture features variable rpm and oil pressure control allowing MSD engineers the ability to maintain the exact conditions that they want for gear tests. Severe loads can be placed on the gear and the fixture can spin up to 10,000 rpm. Features increased outer hardened layer thickness (RC 55-60). Micro polished surface for smooth contact. Proprietary formulated ductile iron. Melonite QPQ coated reduces friction and initial wear. Interstitial carbide concentration improves wear resistance and running properties.

Product Features:
  • Increased outer hardened layer thickness (RC 55-60)
  • Micro Polished Surface For Smooth Contact
  • Proprietary formulated ductile iron.
  • Melonite QPQ coated reduces friction and initial wear
  • Interstitial carbide improves wear resistance/running properties
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MSD Ignition – Crank Trigger Kit; Big Block Ford (Part No.8644)

Crank Trigger Kit; Big Block Ford

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$538.99
For a long time, racers have known that one of the best things to do to an engine to improve its performance is to stabilize the ignition timing. The MSD flying magnet crank trigger system does exactly that by using magnets embedded in an aluminum wheel. The MSD flying magnet crank trigger uses four magnets secured in the aluminum trigger wheel that pass by a stationary non-magnetic pick-up to trigger the ignition. This flying magnet design produces accurate trigger signals and the non-magnetic pick-up cannot be false triggered. Each flying magnet crank trigger includes a two-piece mounting bracket for the non-magnetic pick-up that in most cases will work on either the passenger side or driver’s side of the engine (the SB Chrysler and SB Ford brackets mount on only one side). The adjustable bracket provides a wide range of timing adjustment and spacers are included. These systems will trigger MSD 6, 7, 8 and 10 series ignitions and all MSD timing accessories.

Product Features:
  • Absolutely the most accurate way to trigger the ignition
  • The non-magnetic pickup cannot be false triggered.
  • Powerful magnets are embedded in a billet aluminum trigger wheel.
  • Incl. brackets/mounting hardware to fit a variety of engines
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Motorcraft – Spark Plug Wire: 2 Year Warranty Unlimited Miles, Set of 6 Wires (Part No.WR-4099)

Spark Plug Wire: 2 Year Warranty Unlimited Miles, Set of 6 Wires

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$78.99
Motorcraft Plug Wires are Manufactured of premium-quality materials to strict Ford Engineering standards. High-Dielectric Insulation helps maintain and control voltage delivery while reducing Radio Frequency Interference. EPDM/Silicone wire jacket, spark plug & coil/ distributor insulators help protect against oil and high temperatures. Optimized wire lengths help minimize part numbers while still providing proper fit. Designed and Tested to Stringent Ford Standards.

Product Features:
  • Backed by Motorcraft’s Service Parts Warranty
  • Designed for long life – key life durability testing (equivalent to 10 years/150,000 miles) is conducted in addition to on-vehicle durability testing.
  • Optimized wire lengths help minimize part numbers while still providing proper fit.
  • Wires are optimum lengths for easy installation.
  • EPDM/Silicone wire jacket, spark plug AND coil / distributor insulators help protect against oil and high temperatures.
  • Motorcraft ignition components help prevent false check engine lights.
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Carquest Premium – Ignition Control Module Connector (Part No.PTA1196)

Ignition Control Module Connector

from

$21.99
CARQUEST premium engine management products provide the right products for a wide range of domestic and import applications. Delivering the highest performance and durability under demanding conditions.

Product Features:
  • Premium quality materials for longer service life
  • Sealed connections (where applicable) to prevent environmental corrosion and performance issues
  • Global coverage for import and/or domestic applications
  • OE specified wire gauge to ensure a reliable electrical connection
  • Designed to meet or exceed OE specifications in form, fit and function
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Carquest Premium – Coil On Plug Insulator Boot: Spring included, Designed for direct fit (Part No.35-7014)

Coil On Plug Insulator Boot: Spring included, Designed for direct fit

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$7.49
CARQUEST Premium coil on plug boots are engineered to restore ignition boot reliability and performance. We have OE design providing an exact direct fit for your application and the performance and durability meet or exceed OE requirements. It offers excellent heat resistance as well as maximum protection against spark loss. With durable silicone compound for resistance to high heat or abrasion.

Product Features:
  • Provides excellent heat resistance as well as maximum protection against spark loss.
  • Durable silicone compound for resistance to high heat or abrasion
  • Spring included with the coil boot
  • Design for direct compatibility
  • OE design provides an exact fit for your application
  • Multipack provides one time replace all COP for better deal
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MSD Ignition – Distributor; Ford Y Block; Ready-to-Run (Part No.8383)

Distributor; Ford Y Block; Ready-to-Run

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$774.99
MSD is excited to offer two ready-to-run distributors for two classic Ford engines. These distributors are the answer to weak breaker points or rebuilt aftermarket models. Inside the billet housing there is a high-output ignition module. When the maintenance-free magnetic pick-up signals the module to fire, up to 7.5 amps is sent to the coil where a powerful spark is created. This improved spark output results in quick starts, snappy throttle response and terrific drivability. The distributors are equipped with a vacuum advance canister for cruising economy. Plus, there is a mechanical advance assembly that is mounted on top of the distributor shaft making it easy to adjust the advance to meet your needs. Another great feature of the ready-to-run distributors is their simple installation. All you need to do is connect three wires and you’ll be cruising.

Product Features:
  • Now includes built-in Rev Limiter
  • No CARB Exemption Order Number
  • Does not require an MSD Ignition Control
  • Built-in module produces a 7.5 amp single spark through high rpm
  • Vacuum advance canister for improved economy (can be locked out)
  • CNC machined billet aluminum housing and billet aluminum base
  • Housing Is 5/8 in. Smaller In Diameter Than Stock Ford Distr.
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Carquest Premium – Distributor Drive Gear (Part No.DGA1004)

Distributor Drive Gear

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$98.99
CARQUEST premium engine management products provide the right products for a wide range of domestic and import applications. Delivering the highest performance and durability under demanding conditions.
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MSD Ignition – Wire Set; Super Conductor; 8-cyl. Multi-Angle Plug; Socket/HEI (Part No.31199)

Wire Set; Super Conductor; 8-cyl. Multi-Angle Plug; Socket/HEI

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$129.99
Set includes terminals for engines with early type (socket) and late type (HEI spark plug top) distributor caps. 90 degree boots and terminals factory installed on one end.

Product Features:
  • Extra Long 8.5mm Wires So You Can Cut To Your Designed Length
  • Incl. both socket-style and spark plug-style boots and terminals
  • Includes Mini-Stripper-Crimper For Factory Style Crimps
  • Size Includes: [2]48/50/56 in./[3] 32 in. Wires/Boots/Terminals
  • Durable outer sleeve is a proprietary compound for resistance to high heat or abrasion
  • Stainless steel terminals feature dual crimp tabs to grip wire conductor and outer jacket separately
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Dorman – Help – Spark Plug Non-Foulers – 14mm Gasket Seat Long Reach (Part No.42004)

Spark Plug Non-Foulers - 14mm Gasket Seat Long Reach

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$9.99
This spark plug non fouler is designed for easy installation on specified vehicles to protect spark plugs from fouling and damage. It is engineered for durability and reliable performance.

Product Features:
  • Direct replacement – this spark plug non fouler is designed for easy installation to protect spark plugs from fouling and damage on specified vehicles
  • Ideal solution – this non-fouler preserves spark plug life and is a reliable replacement for an original non-fouler that has failed due to corrosion
  • Durable construction – made from quality components to ensure reliable performance and a long service life
  • Trustworthy quality – backed by team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
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Carquest Premium – Distributor Reluctor (Part No.REA1001)

Distributor Reluctor

from

$7.99
CARQUEST premium engine management products provide the right products for a wide range of domestic and import applications. Delivering the highest performance and durability under demanding conditions.
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Motorcraft – Original Equipment (O.E.) Switch Assembly – Ignition (Part No.SW-5011)

Original Equipment (O.E.) Switch Assembly - Ignition

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$81.99
The only parts recommended by Ford Motor Company for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.

Product Features:
  • Direct-fit, OE replacement parts – identical to factory installed parts. Robust design helps provide long operating life and excellent performance.
  • All OE switch functions are maintained. Factory connectors help ensure a solid, positive connection. Provided factory mounting points ensure easy installation – new gaskets and attaching hardware is included, where applicable.
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Dorman – Electrical Harness – 2-Wire Ignition Coil (Part No.85848)

Electrical Harness - 2-Wire Ignition Coil

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$12.29
This ignition coil connector is designed to match the appearance and function of the original hardware on specified applications. Made of quality materials, it is engineered for reliable performance and durability.

Product Features:
  • Direct replacement – this ignition coil connector matches the appearance and function of the factory hardware on specified applications
  • Ideal solution – this connector is a reliable replacement for an original part that is missing or has failed due to fatigue
  • Durable construction – this part is made from quality materials to ensure reliable performance and long service life
  • Trustworthy quality – backed by team of product experts in the United States and more than a century of automotive experience
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Delphi – Ignition Control Module (Part No.DS10056)

Ignition Control Module

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$103.99
Delphi OE technology ignition products are validated to match the vehicles system; OE quality replacement parts for the right fit , form and function; Delphi coils provide OE performance, durability and electromagnetic capacity level requirements.

Product Features:
  • OE quality replacement parts for the right fit, form and function
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Carquest Premium – Ignition Module (Part No.CBJ1127)

Ignition Module

from

$185.99
CARQUEST Ignition Modules are built by an ignition systems manufacturer with expertise in the entire vehicle spark system.

Product Features:
  • CARQUEST Ignition Modules creates and refines the timing of the engine using various sensors and readings throughout the spark system in order to create an efficiently running engine.
  • CARQUEST Ignition Modules use current and voltage limiting circuitry in order to prevent the ignition coil from over voltage/current. Over voltages can allow for coils to create excessive heat which can damage to the ignition module resulting in check eng
  • CARQUEST Ignition Modules are 100% individually tested for all product functionalities including over voltage, timing and dwell.
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PerTronix – D9010 Flame-Thrower HEI Distributor Clockwise Vacuum Lockout Kit (Part No.D9010)

D9010 Flame-Thrower HEI Distributor Clockwise Vacuum Lockout Kit

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$10.99
Vacuum Advance & LockoutThese vacuum canisters help optimize ignition advance for maximum part throttle performance and cruise speed efficiency. Our vacuum lockout plates allow for precise pickup coil position and accurate rotor phasing.

Product Features:
  • PerTronix D9010 Flame-Thrower HEI Distributor Clockwise Vacuum Lockout Kit
  • These vacuum canisters help optimize ignition advance for maximum part throttle performance and cruise speed efficiency.
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PerTronix – D9006 Flame-Thrower HEI Distributor Adjustable Vacuum Advance Canister (Part No.D9006)

D9006 Flame-Thrower HEI Distributor Adjustable Vacuum Advance Canister

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$30.99
Vacuum Advance & LockoutThese vacuum canisters help optimize ignition advance for maximum part throttle performance and cruise speed efficiency. Our vacuum lockout plates allow for precise pickup coil position and accurate rotor phasing.

Product Features:
  • PerTronix D9006 Flame-Thrower HEI Distributor Adjustable Vacuum Advance Canister
  • These vacuum canisters help optimize ignition advance for maximum part throttle performance and cruise speed efficiency.
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Carquest Premium – Distributor Cap (Part No.CAC1054)

Distributor Cap

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$19.99
Carquest premium engine management products provide the right products for a wide range of domestic and import applications. Delivering the highest performance and durability under demanding conditions.
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MSD Ignition – Distributor Cap; Ford HEI (Part No.8408)

Distributor Cap; Ford HEI

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$52.99
MSD molds our most popular V8 distributor caps in-house. These caps are injection molded from DuPont? Rynite material and feature spark plug-style terminals. These terminals offer improved locking connections and the Rynite material is extremely strong with excellent dielectric properties. Plus, most caps have an optional wire retainer that is supplied with these caps to lock the wires in place.

Product Features:
  • Designed w/Performance In Mind
  • High Quality Material
  • Stainless Terminals
  • Performance replacement part
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Carquest Premium – Ignition Conversion Kit (Part No.CBA1703)

Ignition Conversion Kit

from

$389.99
Ignition Conversion Kit

PerTronix – 1282 Ignitor Ford 1954-56 8 cyl (Part No.1282)

1282 Ignitor Ford 1954-56 8 cyl

from

$139.99
For over thirty years, the Ignitor has proven itself in applications ranging from race cars to tractors. The Ignitor replaces breaker points and troublesome factory electronic ignitions with a dependable, self contained and maintenance free electronic ign

Product Features:
  • PerTronix 1282 Ignitor Ford 1954-56 8 cyl
  • Delivers twice the voltage to the spark plugs, increasing horsepower, fuel economy, and spark plug life.
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1981 Ford Thunderbird Ignition and Tune-Up Products

You count on your 1981 Ford Thunderbird to run right. That means taking care of it with regular maintenance, necessary repairs, and the right parts. Advance Auto Parts can help with all of that thanks to our extensive inventory of trusted Ignition and Tune-Up Products. With 143 Ignition and Tune-Up Products ranging in price from $1.29 to $762.99, you’re sure to find everything you need for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird.

Brands matter. If you want to shop a specific Ignition and Tune-Up Products brand, we stock 16 different brands like Motorcraft, ACDelco, and E3. 1981 Ford Thunderbird Ignition and Tune-Up Products start as low as $1.29!

One of the best ways to find top quality OEM or aftermarket Ignition and Tune-Up Products is by asking professionals. Short of that, you can shop with confidence thanks to our 1,232 extensive product reviews on 1981 Ford Thunderbird Ignition and Tune-Up Products. Some of the top-rated Ignition and Tune-Up Products products we carry are Wire Set; Black Super Conductor; Ford 302; 351W; HEI with 4.7 stars and High-Performance Shorty Spark Plugs for Header Clearance with 4.9 stars.

Did we mention you can order your Ignition and Tune-Up Products from our online catalog and have them shipped right to your garage? Or, if you feel like seeing the parts first-hand, search for your nearest Advance Auto Parts location above and pick up in-store when you’re ready. Browse our full Ignition and Tune-Up Products inventory for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird below to get started!

Top-Rated Ignition and Tune-Up Products Brands For Your 1981 Ford Thunderbird

Trusted Ignition and Tune-Up Products OEM and aftermarket product brands are what Advance Auto Parts specializes in. The brands we work with are sure to keep that 1981 Ford Thunderbird running right for years to come. In our inventory you’ll find brands like Motorcraft, ACDelco, E3, and even more.

Popular Champion Ignition and Tune-Up Products

You’ll find popular Champion brand products across Spark Plugs. All are waiting to get your 1981 Ford Thunderbird back on the road. Some of the top-rated Champion products in these categories are:

FAQs for 1981 Ford Thunderbird Ignition and Tune-Up Products

What are the most purchased Ignition and Tune-Up Products for the 1981 Ford Thunderbird?

Out of 143 Ignition and Tune-Up Products for the 1981 Ford Thunderbird, the most popular in our inventory are:
Spark Plug (ASF42CF4)
from $6.79
(28)
Spark Plug (ASF42CF4)
Spark Plugs

What are the top-rated 1981 Ford Thunderbird Ignition and Tune-Up Products?

Top-rated Ignition and Tune-Up Products for your 1981 Ford Thunderbird based on customer reviews/ratings are:
Wire Set; Black Super Conductor; Ford 302; 351W; HEI
from $147.99
(53)
Wire Set; Black Super Conductor; Ford 302; 351W; HEI
“Easy to change gasket ring and filter. Makes changing oil a whole lot easier”
High-Performance Shorty Spark Plugs for Header Clearance
from $52.99
(36)
High-Performance Shorty Spark Plugs for Header Clearance
“Perfect great plugs for my Build. Great service to THANK YOU!”
Distributor Cap
from $19.05
(28)
Distributor Cap
“Works and fit good.”