1964 Speaker transformer orientation & plug color

[Vincent B.]

I am installing the reconed original speaker in my 1964 convertible and would like to know which side the transformer should go on. In the 1963 shop manual page 13-8 it has two pictures showing the speaker with the transformer on the left side but in the installation instructions on the same page it says to install with the transformer on the right Side.

I also have a question about the speaker connector. Should the connector plug be black or off white?

[Jack H.]

Re: 1964 Speaker transformer orientation & plug color

Check out your copy of the AIM (Assy Instruction Manual) in the U69, radio option section. At first, you'll see the only note regarding speaker installation is to insure the clip on the radio to speaker connector mounts onto the instrument panel brace (thwarts the potential to rattle).

But, a closer look at that drawing's PN call out table provides another note associated with the speaker itself. After GM PN and description for the speaker, there's a follow-up note: "Install with transformer on RH side."

On the color of the speaker's captive connector, Packard Electric provided these in different colors and there WERE running changes over time as to the core plastic material used to form the connector body. My experience has been that older connectors (late 50's/early 60's) were translucent white in color while later connectors (approximately late 60's) were black.

But, I have seen service replacement era connectors that appeared almost clear. I suspect that's an issue of the specific material used to mold the connector.

Without the GM drawing for the speaker, I can't say if there was a designer preference (call out) for specific connector color. Plus, I wouldn't bet against there having been production variances based on what color connectors were in stock at Packard when a given speaker run was made by Delco...