23rd Series Heater Valve

Posted by Fred Puhn On 2011/7/22 21:25:32

I am deep into replacing the wiring harness on my 1950 Packard 23rd series Deluxe Touring Sedan. I pulled the heater in order to inspect it, paint the firewall, and replace the blower wiring. I have a question about the heater valve.

This part is controlled by a cable which opens and closes the water flow. In addition there is a small diameter tube coming out of the valve just hanging there under the dash. My radiator expert thinks this is a "capillary" tube which responds to temperature and somehow controls the water flow. Does anyone know what this device does?

Also is there some simple way to test the function of the heater valve "capillary" tube device?