Re: 1934 1104 Transmission Removal and Clutch replacement

Posted by Tim Cole On 2013/1/12 15:50:45

Thanks Dave for the great reference.

The last one I did was a 37 twelve. I filled a box with bolts and thought "I'm just getting started." Nothing makes you feel like you're working on the American Rolls-Royce as doing a post 9th series clutch job.

Anyway, Tom your comment about the pop out problem is very good. That probably comes from trying to use the shifter as the means of removal and installation. Very bad idea. I did some service on a 34 twelve with a reverse pop out problem and when I looked at the serial numbers everything matched except the trans which was from a Super 8. Also, I have found that the shifters don't always interchange very well even though they look the same. The cars do have some hand built precision in them.

I have done a number of clutch jobs and the trick is to never put force on the input shaft. With Senior Packards I made up a tool using a pipe across the frame using a chain and studs as a safety to suspend the trans. The pipe would rest on wood rails. That way there is no chance of the unit falling. From there a floor trans jack is wonderful to rent but not necessary.

The next issue is: what about the motor? The usual way is to support it with a floor jack and a piece of wood, but the authorized way is to use a special tool that supports the motor using the frame. If you make that tool up you can then do the clutch job on a free standing lift using a standard trans jack.

The next issue is the amount of space between the x-frame and the trans. Removing the output shaft yoke is a help. That is why the safety chain is so important because if you have to start lowering things to clear the frame the safety chain prevents damage. As I recall once you have the trans mounts off the unit will clear. Which is tough because the whole thing is stitched together.

Next there is the ultra important clutch pilot. If you happen to have a spare input shaft that is great, but you can make a suitable pilot out of wood or steel. Just take the pilot bearing and clutch disk to a machine shop. That is the most important special tool, otherwise you will be extending your vocabulary.

If you have an overhead gantry crane and a lift or motor pit the entire power pack can be lowered onto the floor, the clutch replaced and the unit reinstalled on both the eights and the twelves. With practice in an afternoon.

Hope this helps