Re: Idiot's First Packard: 51' 200 Ultramatic Coupe

Posted by humanpotatohybrid On 2024/6/15 6:28:45

I second everything Kevin (and Dave) said. Very important. Also worth noting, the fuel pump check valves are rubber discs that turn into the consistency of leather over time. So your pump may appear to work when it actually barely is, giving you low fuel pressure which can resemble a host of issues.

For the radio, probably the vibrator is not working. You would hear a BZZZZZZZ sound when you turn it on if it IS working. You can buy a solid state replacement, or carefully repair yours. Also check that no vacuum tubes are burnt out (just have the radio on and check that they light up). It's also best practice, though not strictly necessary, to replace the capacitors in the unit since they go bad with age. Remember to connect it to the car antenna, raised, for testing. You'll never get reception otherwise.