Re: Torsion level wheel alignment

Posted by HH56 On 2019/7/9 22:27:27

As to the noise, it depends on how loud and when it happens as to what might be the cause. Earlier 55s were somewhat prone to an occasional snapping noise in the suspension because of the load link geometry and the TL pieces sliding against one another. Because of the first layout of components, water could also get in and wash lubricant out or promote rust in the link sockets. Packard did a redesign of the geometry and it was installed on some production. In 56 the new geometry and a rearrangement of the basic components was done so water could not collect which is why the 55 and 56 load link suspension parts are not interchangeable.

Have a read thru bulletin 55T-37. It gives vehicle numbers where the geometry changes were made and besides the links there are a couple of other things in the front that could cause a noise. Another common possibility is the rubber in the A arm bushings has deteriorated and the bushings are hitting metal to metal during a serious bump. Obviously, any bad bushings would need to be changed before any alignment is attempted.https://www.packardinfo.com/xoops/html/downloads/STB/55T-37.pdf