Re: 1929 645 Brake & Clutch Question

Posted by Paul_K On 2010/3/20 10:01:58

I want to thank all who responded to my post. I do have many Packard service manuals here at the house. However I was in a bit of a rush (or too lazy)to pull the manuals and go through them all. We have had the car since my father in law passed away in 2004. My wife is the owner and only now getting over her father's death and is only now allowing her self to enjoy her car. On the rare occasions we took it out over the years, she wouldn't drive it.

I have been giving her lessons on it and the old girl (the Packard that is) has been out more this week then in the last six years!. There are some issues that have cropped up due to lack of use. I tried to explain to my wife that it is important to get these cars out and about once a month or so. The brake issue popped up on a real heavy stop I had to make and the Packard pulled real hard left, surprising everyone including me. The trans is a real pain the the butt to sift, and always has been. I double clutch just like I did on big rigs or don't use the clutch at all. Dick (my late father in law) said it had something to do with the newer oils put into the transmission when he had it. I haven't thought about trying the load bearing type oil (Mobil Gear 600)instead of the 90 wt that's in it now. Also the clutch is very high on the engagement. There is about a half inch free play before pressure is felt on the peddle. There is also a stiff spot in the steering but I assume it is from sitting and I will adjust the gear box after I check the rest of the steering linkage today. I want my wife to be able to drive her Packard in a safe condition and not need me to go along if she so chooses to "take the girls out".

I also need to find the right grease gun fittings. It was lubed just before Dick passed away but has less then 1,000 miles of use, so greasing the fittings hasn't been an issue.