Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

The polyurethane is not more "rigid" than rubber. It has the same Durometer (hardness) value as rubber. The difference between the two is "compression set." Poly is more resistant to compression than rubber, and will, therefore, hold it's shape far longer. Dwight Heinmuller

Hi Howard: Thanks for your comments. The problem with making the front bushings with polyurethane is that the poly will not adhere properly to the metal shells. It therefore will be useless because it will not absorb rotational forces, or in other words, it will not resist the up and down movement of the front suspension a-arms, or jounce and rebound. Using original type rubber bushings will work well, IF the exposed areas of the rubber are coated with liquid Neoprene (Permatex brand "Liquid Electrical Tape." Using my new poly bushings in the rear solves the ride height problem, and other problems such as "swimming," although all of the bushings, front and rear, must be in excellent condition to avoid swimming. I recommend a complete overhaul of the Torsion Level suspension, including replacement of all F&R bushings, Watts Linkage bushings and new KYB shocks. If only part is done, the results will be unsatisfactory. Torque specs are included with the suspension bushing kits I sell. Dwight Heinmuller

Dwight:

That was a great article you wrote in the latest Cormorant. I think you know more about post-war Packards than practically anyone around. I plan to use your article on the Torsion-Level to get my Clipper back to where it belongs. Thank you!

Feedback.

Anyone using gas shocks on the rear.?.

I am.. And they are no good...and its not bushings.

The rear has no grab.. Push it down and it bounces..

When you push down it should stay down. Firm.. Push it down with gas shocks. And you have spongy up and down..not tl up and down

Like no shocks at all.. I have to turn off system on the freeway cause it goes off and on all the time...and it never did that before.