Andy’s Tips: What Every Classic Mopar Owner Should Carry in the Trunk
7/28/2025
Back in the day, you didn’t go anywhere in a classic without a few spares in the trunk. I remember riding shotgun in my buddy’s ’63 Dart on a road trip—we broke down outside of Flagstaff, but thanks to a spare ballast resistor and a couple wrenches, we were rolling again before the sun set.
Modern cars can call a tow truck with the push of a button. Your vintage Mopar? She’s gonna need a little more preparation. Whether you’re driving to a show or just cruising around town, here’s what I always keep in the trunk—and what you should too.
The Essentials: Tools and Basics
Let’s start with the non-negotiables.
1. Jack and Lug Wrench
The factory jack is charming, but I’d keep a modern scissor or bottle jack too—especially if you’re running larger wheels or modern tires.
2. Full-Size Spare (or at least a patch kit)
Compact spares weren’t standard on these cars. If you’ve got room, toss in a full-size spare on a matching rim.
3. Basic Tool Roll
Include:
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Combination wrenches (3/8", 7/16", 1/2", 9/16")
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Screwdrivers (flathead + Phillips)
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Pliers and needle nose
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Socket set
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Spark plug socket and gap tool
Andy’s Tip: Old Mopars love to loosen bolts at the worst times. Keep a 7/16” wrench handy for those trim pieces that rattle loose.
Electrical Spares That’ll Save You
Nothing kills a cruise like an electrical gremlin. These parts are cheap, small, and worth their weight in gold on the side of the road.
4. Ballast Resistor
This is the most common roadside failure I’ve seen. If your Mopar cranks but won’t start, this is your #1 suspect.
5. Extra Fuses
Keep a handful of various sizes—your dome light, tail lights, or dash might just need a quick pop-in fix.
6. Coil and Spark Plug Wires
If you’re running a points-style ignition, a spare coil and wire set takes up no space and can get you home.
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Fluids and Engine Bits
7. Oil and Funnel
A quart of 10W-30 is always smart. Add a rag or pair of gloves and a small funnel.
8. Coolant + Water
You don’t need a whole jug—just enough to top off. Old radiators sometimes burp unexpectedly.
9. Belts and Hoses
If you’ve got the room, stash a spare fan belt or radiator hose, especially for long drives. Mark them clearly with the size and location.
Andy’s Tip: If your lower radiator hose has an internal spring, keep a new one in the trunk. Once that spring collapses, it’s all over.
Mopar-Specific Must-Haves
10. Timing Light or Dwell Meter
Not critical, but if you’re running points, these can help if your idle goes off during a road trip.
11. Ignition Module (for electronic ignition cars)
If you’ve upgraded your ignition system, keep a spare module—failure usually happens without warning.
12. Vacuum Hoses and Tees
Old rubber cracks. A $5 bag of assorted tees and hose segments can save a lot of trouble on the road.
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Comfort and Utility
13. Shop Towels and Gloves
You’ll need them—trust me.
14. Flashlight (with batteries)
Because your dome light won’t help if your whole system is dead.
15. Service Manual or Wiring Diagram
Print it out or keep a copy in a binder. Even the best mechanics forget which fuse powers what.
Final Word from Andy
You don’t need to carry a full garage with you—but a well-stocked trunk is the difference between finishing your drive and calling your buddy at midnight. These cars are tough. They just need a little help once in a while. So be prepared, stay safe, and enjoy the ride.
Stock Up on Your Trunk Kit with Andy-Approved Parts
From ballast resistors to hoses and ignition coils—we’ve got everything you should be carrying in your classic Mopar. If you’re not sure what fits, give us a ring.
👉 Shop Vintage Mopar Parts – https://www.oldmoparts.com/classic-chrysler-parts
📞 Phone Orders: 617-244-1118
📩 Email: orders@oldmoparts.com
