Re: 1949 Packard should i pull the trigger

Posted by HH56 On 2019/11/3 9:43:02

On the clutch, a linkage problem is a possibility but since it was working before one more likely possibility is the clutch disc has become stuck to the flywheel or pressure plate. This is somewhat common in cars not used for long periods located in climates where moisture condensation is something to contend with.

On some occasions where the sticking is not severe, while not the best or safest method, depressing the clutch with the trans in gear and trying to start the engine could possibly break it free. That procedure does put a lot of stress on the starter motor and associated parts so not the best solution.

The other and more preferred method is to remove the lower flywheel cover and while the clutch pedal is depressed, use something like a putty knife or long thin piece of metal to slide up between the clutch disc and flywheel or pressure plate to break the clutch free. Obviously depending on the length of the tool the flywheel would need to be rotated to get all the way around the plate but it is something several have had to do.

Solution for preventing it from happening again is to use a block of wood between the dash edge and pedal to keep the clutch depressed if the car is going to be parked long term or placed in storage.

With a number of 2382, because the car is a 23rd series 49 the turn signal wiring is more involved than that of the 22nd series. It would take a bit of troubleshooting to find the exact problem but again, it will be a fixable issue. Horn wiring is simple and could be just dirty contact plates at the horn ring. That would require a disassembly but is not a huge task. Wiper motor rebuilds are commonly needed on the cars. The motor is held on only by a couple of screws and a clamp to the cable for the on/off valve so after removal, for an amount usually less than $150 including freight a rebuild will most likely take care of that issue.