Re: First steps? '49 Packard
Posted by humanpotatohybrid On 2024/6/25 14:50:31
First thing is don't run it on what's in the tank. Pull the plugs and get some ATF, MMO, or fogging oil in the cylinders, to help with initial lubrication. 1 tbsp per cylinder is plenty. Make sure the engine spins 360 before cranking on it. If so, then you don't have any stuck valves.
Next disconnect the old fuel line before the pump. Careful you don't spill a bunch, but on these I think the fuel line runs well over the rear axle so it won't spill out from gravity aside from what's in the line. Fire hazard.
No dipstick? Just drain the old oil and put 7 qts in of cheap 15W40. These don't need fancy oil or ZDDP added. Won't hurt to use a high ZDDP oil but shouldn't need it.
If you want to then try running it on starter fluid or a squirt bottle of gas, or a boat tank feeding the carb. Probably the accel pump is shot so pumping the gas will do nothing. Consider plumbing in an oil pressure gauge before you start, since the dash gauge (actually the sender) may well not work after 30 years and it's not great to not know your oil pressure.
In terms of getting it back on the road, at the minimum you will need to rebuild the carb and fuel pump, and redo the entire brake system. Fortunately both of those are pretty cheap as old cars go. Also very educational. Also new battery and tires, but hopefully that was obvious.
Reference the parts list, parts x-ref, and literature archive on your left. Let us know how it goes and if you have any questions. As you can see, many here are happy to help.
Next disconnect the old fuel line before the pump. Careful you don't spill a bunch, but on these I think the fuel line runs well over the rear axle so it won't spill out from gravity aside from what's in the line. Fire hazard.
No dipstick? Just drain the old oil and put 7 qts in of cheap 15W40. These don't need fancy oil or ZDDP added. Won't hurt to use a high ZDDP oil but shouldn't need it.
If you want to then try running it on starter fluid or a squirt bottle of gas, or a boat tank feeding the carb. Probably the accel pump is shot so pumping the gas will do nothing. Consider plumbing in an oil pressure gauge before you start, since the dash gauge (actually the sender) may well not work after 30 years and it's not great to not know your oil pressure.
In terms of getting it back on the road, at the minimum you will need to rebuild the carb and fuel pump, and redo the entire brake system. Fortunately both of those are pretty cheap as old cars go. Also very educational. Also new battery and tires, but hopefully that was obvious.
Reference the parts list, parts x-ref, and literature archive on your left. Let us know how it goes and if you have any questions. As you can see, many here are happy to help.
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