Re: 1940 110 convertible possible purchase

Posted by Tim Cole On 2012/2/13 22:38:32

Dear ClassicCrusier:

That is one of the more practial Packards to own, so the fair price makes it more attractive.

Lie on a piece of cardboard and inspect the coil springs - they may be worn out and collapsed.

Next have someone rock the steering wheel back and forth. There is a center link that is subject to wear. Ditto the steering gearbox. Jack up the front and check for king pin wear the same way as ball joints.

Shocks usually need to be rebuilt, but look for signs of looseness in the control arms.

The motor should have 30+ psi of oil pressure and temperature in the middle of the gauge. The generator should charge, and if the gas gauge doesn't work the tank is probably dirty.

The rear quarters like to rust behind the doors so check for blobs of putty. In really bad cases you can see the running board from inside the car. Check the door bottoms for putty as well.

On the motor, the front mount should be intact and there should be two rubber stabilizer pads on each side of the motor. There is a heat control valve on the manifold which should work.

The brake pedal should be firm, and check for drum wear by stopping quickly. If the pedal feels like it is moving then the drums are probably shot. Big problem. The hand brake should work as well.

If the rear springs are straight they need to be rebuilt.

Check on the right side of the water pump for the intake tube. If there is only a hose coming out of the radiator, then the tube is missing.

Check the starter button. These usually wear and benefit greatly from the use of a relay.

Well that's it for now.