Re: 1953 patrician maiden voyage

Posted by HH56 On 2012/6/19 12:23:57

Congratulations on the first drive. The trans problem of not working at all in high is not a good sign though. Hopefully the fluid change will help and a stuck valve might be freed. Linkage adjustment check might also prove helpful. We'll keep our fingers crossed but be prepared.

If there is a burn smell or a lot of particles found in the pan when changing the old fluid, it may indicate the high range clutch has self destructed. A not uncommon problem if mistreatment, lack of maintenance or an improper adjustment had occurred. High mileage also took a toll on bushings and their sealing surfaces. The resulting loss of pressures could cause various problems.

Too many otherwise good cars were parked after Packard's demise because no one in average shops understood the Ultramatic's particular needs. Owners pushed the trans until it finally just gave up the fight.