Re: Peterson's 1940 Packard

Posted by West Peterson On 2011/9/14 22:41:37

Spent some time with the Packard this summer, during extremely short bits of time available.

First thing was to install two new outside running board trim pieces. They are not correct for 1940, but (1) I don't think the correct size is available, and (2) they didn't cost nearly as much as what a set of correct ones would have (if available).

Replaced the pinion seal with the help of three good friends. We also cleaned the driveshaft inside and out. Because the driveshaft has a Zerk grease fitting at the front, we took it apart and removed all the old caked on grease. This can cause a vibration, slight or major, depending on just how uneven the old caked grease has mounted itself on the inside wall.

Once everything was put back together, we were successful in eliminating the pinion-seal leak. With advice from Fred Kanter, we used a NOS seal that was soaked for a few days in gear oil. Also, the slight vibration that I was feeling at ~40mph seems to have disappeared.

Also changed the oil in preparation for the 4-hour drive up to Canton, Ohio for the CCCA Grand Classic. I decided to use full synthetic.

The last thing I did was gave the paint another good hand polish. Will wash and wax after I arrive.