1938 Desoto S-5 Ignition Parts

Engine:
3.7L 228cid L6

7 Ignition parts are listed for the 1938 Desoto S-5, in 3 part types, covering the 3.7L 228cid L6 engine. Each one has a brand, a manufacturer part number and notes that say where it fits.

On the 1938 Desoto S-5, the ignition system delivers spark at the right moment — plugs, coils, wires, distributors and ignition modules. All 7 listed parts are Distributor Cap (3 parts), Distributor Rotor (3 parts) and Condenser / Capacitor (1 part).

Condenser / Capacitor

Brand Part Number Markets Notes Buy
STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS AL118T
🇺🇸 US
T-SeriesTerminal Type: Slide
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This table covers the capacitors used in this electrical or A/C circuit.

Distributor Cap

Premium

Brand Part Number Markets Notes Buy
LILAND GLOBAL AL96LG
🇺🇸 US
Body Material: PhenolicBlack Brass
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Standard Replacement

Brand Part Number Markets Notes Buy
LILAND GLOBAL AL96BALG
🇺🇸 US
Black AluminumBody Material: Phenolic
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STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS AL96
🇺🇸 US
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This table covers the Distributor caps. Typical signs include a leak at the neck, a cap that will not hold pressure, or a missing tether. Match the pressure rating or thread in the notes — radiator, reservoir and fuel caps are not interchangeable.

Distributor Rotor

Brand Part Number Markets Notes Buy
LILAND GLOBAL AL98LG
🇺🇸 US
Height: 1.0 In
Fitment notes — LILAND GLOBAL AL98LG
Height: 1.0 In
PremiumBlack Brass
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LILAND GLOBAL AL98RBLG
🇺🇸 US
Red BrassPremium
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STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS AL98
🇺🇸 US
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This table covers the Distributor rotors. Typical signs include shudder under braking, or a lip at the outer edge. Do not put new pads on a rotor that is below minimum thickness.

Buying Ignition Parts for a 1938 Desoto S-5

On this vehicle, the ignition system delivers spark at the right moment — plugs, coils, wires, distributors and ignition modules.

  • Confirm you have the 3.7L 228cid L6 engine — every part on this page is matched to it.
  • Read the notes on each row for position, trim and spec qualifiers before you order.
  • Where labor overlaps, replace plugs and wires (or coil boots) as a set — one weak cylinder makes the whole set feel bad.
  • Cross-reference the manufacturer part number against your old part or a service-manual listing.

Start with the largest groups on this page: Distributor Cap and Distributor Rotor .

Frequently Asked Questions

How many ignition parts fit the 1938 Desoto S-5?

Our catalog currently lists 7 ignition parts for the 1938 Desoto S-5 across 3 subcategories and 2 brands, covering the 3.7L 228cid L6 engine. Each part is matched to the engine(s) it fits.

What are the signs of ignition problems on a 1938 Desoto S-5?

Common symptoms include misfires under load, rough idle, flashing check-engine light, or poor starting in damp weather. If you notice any of these, identify the affected subcategory above and cross-reference the part numbers listed.

What should I replace at the same time?

Where labor overlaps, replace plugs and wires (or coil boots) as a set — one weak cylinder makes the whole set feel bad.

What do the market flags (US, CA, MX) on each part mean?

They show the market for which the manufacturer published application data for that part — where the vehicle was first sold, not where the part was made. If your 1938 Desoto S-5 was originally sold in the US, the safest choice is a part marked for the US market.

How do I make sure a part fits my 1938 Desoto S-5?

Every part on this page is matched to the 3.7L 228cid L6 engine. Then gap matters even on “pre-gapped” plugs — verify against spec, and replace coil boots when they come off a high-mileage engine. The notes column carries position and trim qualifiers where they apply.

Other Parts for the 1938 Desoto S-5

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Manufacturer names, model designations and part numbers are used for identification and fitment reference only. AutoFactsDB is an independent catalog and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer displayed on this page.