Re: The Duchess Project: 1940 Super 8 Convertible Sedan

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2014/1/21 15:35:29

I can't figure out what I would be measuring with the feeler gauge if I pull the axle out. If the axle is pushed all the way in, and the screw on the tool is turned until it touches the axle housing, and I pull out the axle...what am I measuring? What "movement?" That's what I don't understand. It may become clear when I try it. I'll have an Aha moment.

After the axles are installed and backing plates snugged up, go to one side and give the end of the axle shaft a solid rap with a heavy hammer. Then repeat this from the other side. Regardless of whether shims are on both sides or only one side, this will displace the axles all the way to one side allow the bearing cups to reach their outermost limit (contacting the backing plate.). On whichever side the axle shaft is now displaced outwards (the opposite side from which you last hit an axle end), install the tool so the threaded rod is just in contact with the end of the axle. Now push the axle inwards to it's limit and measure how much clearance you have. On this type of axle with a thrust block and single tapered roller bearings, you only need a single adjustment, on either side with shims as long as the total amount of shims doesn't exceed the spec (0.050"?).

I should note that not all Packard rear axles are done this way; for example many of the 30s senior axles used double opposed roller bearings on each axle with inner and outer cups and no thrust block. On these axles you must adjust each axle independently by adding/removing shims from BEHIND the inner race.