Re: 51Packards....52 Packard 200 Deluxe!

Posted by Charles On 2016/7/12 19:51:32

7-12-16

Thanks guys...I remember driving the '51 after I had the brakes fixed (had a shop do it) and I didn't have a problem stopping either. I'm sure it will take some getting used to, just like the column shifter.

Today I tested the brakes again stationary and they still feel firm. I think it will be OK to road test it now. In case of issues, I wanted the hand brake to work too so I went to adjust it now that the ratchet mechanism is freed up and I know I have to pull the handle out further. Tightened the star wheel on the drums until I could just turn the wheel with 2 hands. Then I put the hand brake in the first "notch". Crawled under the car and was surprised to find that there was no slack in the cable! I guess the brake is already adjusted. Released and engaged the hand brake a few times testing the wheels and they lock up and release. Looks like I'm good there!

I put the rear tires on and moved to the front. I'm a little confused/concerned about the directions to tighten the front spindle nut. I followed Owen's instructions in post #2 here:https://packardinfo.com/xoops/html/modules/newbb/viewtopic.php?topic_id=13919&forum=2 but when I back the nut loose 1 hex after tightening to 4 ft lbs, the nut is totally loose. I can move it with my hand. Then I'm supposed to loosen it even more to the next notch on the nut? Later in the posts it was mentioned to tighten the nut while spinning the wheel in the opposite direction until it stops. Then loosen until it spins free and then put the cotter pin in the next looser notch. Should I do it that way if the right way isn't working? I've never done this before so please excuse my ignorance.

If I keep up this pace I might be able to test drive this weekend! I do have to repair the wire to the brake switch because the female barrel connector broke off the wire when I was removing it.