Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

Well it appears the clutch problem has been fixed. As I suspected and others also did it was the internal clutch adjustment.

The first diagnose was a contaminated clutch. I couldn't find info anywhere online where a contaminated clutch would cause a dragging clutch. Just the opposite would happen, a slipping clutch.

On 2nd try the clutch fingers were adjusted. Same issue. Taking out and putting in the clutch/transmission was getting tiresome.

Third try was done without removing the clutch/transmission, but looking at the plates with the shifter removed with a remote camera. The clutch was then adjusted for the correct amount of free play and no drag when the clutch was pushed in.

Drove the car back from the shop today which was a 1/2 hour drive. It worked fine. Previously after driving it for 1/2 hour or less it would start grinding. Also you couldn't get an inch free play.

Thanks for everyone who assisted. I'm thinking that the clutch was on the hairy edge when it was refurbished a few years ago. With some wear, the problem showed up. It was strange that when cold there was no shifting issue, but once warm, I would have a shifting problem. I'm assuming this problem is no more. All is well that ends well. I hope this will help someone else.