Super H Tune-up Question

Hi folks, I just bought a running 1953 Super H for a great deal. It runs pretty smooth and one of the first things I would like to do is to do a little tune-up. Change oil, plugs, wires, radiator flush etc. We have an old M, Super C and B on the farm but I have never really tinkered with these old classics. I am just curious for recommendations from guys on what oil you use, spark plugs, plug wires and such. I'll get her painted and such this winter but in the meantime will use for some light mowing and raking. Appreciate any input from the experts! Thanks!

I use 15W-40 Delvac, and would not replace things just to replace them.

I would change oil, fluids, flush radiator, but leave electrical alone if working fine.

Agreed...that keep things simple for some initial care. Thanks sir!

The reason I say this is there are so many posts on here about bad parts and things not running right after working, so best to leave alone if working well.

I would agree, if it ain't broke, leave it alone! lol.

Dont buy carbon core wires, only wire on the inside, that's for starter's !! But if it run good u don't need new ones !!

For right now, if it's running, I would not do anything to it but check the fluid levels and check the gear cases for water.

Do just enough to know nothing is going to be damaged from running it.

Then get you a note pad, carry it with you while you use it. Start making a list of everything you find that needs attention. Watch for leaks, note noises, oil pressure, coolant temperature and loss, clutch and brake operation, steering, transmission in all gears, electrical, just give it a good workout.

Typical problems you will find; rusty gas tank, radiator problems, water in the gear cases, bad wiring, any number of age related deterioration problems that haven't already been addressed.

But don't get discouraged, they are simple field serviceable machines.

Order a shop manual, start reading it. Familiarize yourself with it, get into the mindset of the designers. Then this winter you will have a good idea what all needs to be done. If you do have to go into it, you can do it once and done, no putting it back together only to find another problem.

Stay in touch. Document your progress with some photos. Ask all the questions you want, we like to help keep them out of the scrap yard!

That is an old wives tale, carbon wires have been out since the 60s with no issues.

I agree with Steve's assessment. I put spiral wound "magnetic suppression" wires on vehicles to limit radio noise, and for quality. But get to know it before invading its happiness. Jim

Sounds good, I'll def keep a running list of potential issues to look at. Other than fluid changes, I don't plan to mess with anything else unless the need arises. It currently seems to run pretty well so I hate to throw off her groove! Appreciate the input!

The rest have it right. Though I would run it for a week or so before changing oil to get things sloshed around and ready to drain out. Check other levels to make sure they are not low.