Re: 1940 Packard 1801 won't start

Posted by bob hattler On 2017/1/12 10:27:05

Fred is it possible the distributor moved and all that is wrong is timing. This was mentioned earlier. I'll check #1 the best way I can; however it is not possible on the 1801 to see the pointer because of its location on the rear of the engine visible through a small hole hidden behind the starter.

The #1 has 25PSI would it make sense that changing the timing slightly would bring #1 up to 85PSI. and would the other cylinders follow?

I once was told by my Cadillac dealer that my 84 engine was bad with 35000 miles. They replaced it 3500 dollars later. I picked up the car and the same problem existed, they replaced the coils on the plugs for $165.00.

I hope you can see my reluctance to start tear down without checking every possible solution.

Another story the Packard lost power on the way back from Nats in Virginia. The add on fuel filter hidden under the car to preserve the appearance of originality was clogged, after $180 of checks we replaced the $7.00 filter.

Thanks
Bob