Re: Resurrecting my rough Packard

Posted by TxGoat On 2023/6/2 8:38:20

I would bypass most of the wiring as suggested above by disconnecting the body feed wire. Many old Packards have a manual starter button located on the starter solenoid. Ignition can be wired through a manual switch. Use 6 volts only on 6 volt systems.

I would drain the oil from the engine and replace it with 10W30 conventional oil with 20% Marvel Mystery Oil. I would also remove the spark plugs and lay them out in the order removed and inspect them for condition and to look for indications of problems in each cylinder. I'd also use a pump oil can to squirt about a tablespoon full of Marvel Mystery Oil into each cylinder and let it sit overnight.

Most likely, the fuel system is gummed up and things like fuel flex lines are dried out and leaking air. I'd put a couple of gallons of gasoline in the tank, if it still has a bottom, then let it sit overnight and then drain it into a clean container and dispose of it.
It's best to do this outside, since the tank may leak or begin to leak, and you do not want gasoline leaking in an enclosed space.

Do not crank or start the engine without water or coolant in the radiator. Doing so will burn out the water pump seal.

Using a pump oil can and motor oil, oil the generator, starter, water pump, distributor, accellerator linkage, etc, befor trying to start the engine. I would spray a liberal dose of WD 40 into the carburetor bowl before attempting to start the engine. I would carefully remove the air cleaner and be sure it is free of mud dauber nests, etc. and be sure the choke is not stuck shut.

Be sure the exhaust is not obstructed.

You can expect to encounter problems with the fuel system, carburetor, ignition points and condenser, and so forth. If the casr was worn out when taken out of service years ago, it will still be worn out, but it can probably be made to run fairly dependabley.

DO NOT abuse the stater and other electrical equipment by applying 12 volts to the car. You will need a full-size, high quality 6 volt battery, and you can expect to need to clean or replace all the battery and ground cables. Use only quality, full-gauge cables and terminals. Cheap battery cables are not cheap; they are WORTHLESS.

You can expect to have to rework the hydraulic brake system. DO NOT push on the brake pedal until you have made sure that there is fluid in the master cylinder. Doing so will most likely cause the master cylinder to stick. If the reservoir is low on fluid or empty, fill it to within 1/4" of the top and let it sit overnight or longer. Then use your hand to gently move the brake pedal down partway. Do this several times before putting any real pressure on it. Recheck the fluid level. If the brakes seem to work, you're lucky, but you can expcet leaks to develop as soon as you try using the brakes.