Re: 1929 model 626 4dr

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2009/12/18 15:36:21

Can't help you with all your questions, but can with some.

The heater core couldn't care less which way the water went thru, inlet from the pump and outlet back to the radiator outlet nipple on the engine block below the water jacket is typical. These were generally installed by dealers, so there was lots of variation in the details.

Top material was often called "colonial grain" and is available from Restoration Supply and Restoration Specialties among others. The long-grain material was a perfect match for my 34, may or may not be for yours - ask for samples to compare.

Shock absorber fluid is SAE10W hydraulic fluid, Mobil DTE 24, also available in 20W if they tend to seep. Many folks also use plain of jack oil, but SAE90 is MUCH MUCH to viscous.

Check Hemmings Motor News, there is an old timer (and I do mean old!) that rebuilds the liquid-filled temperature units. You can do it yourself if you're really ambitious but I recommend you use a pro. Pick up a Hemmings at the local Newsstand, or let us know if you want us to find the contact info for you.

I'd suggest you go thru The Packard Club's directory to locate members near you with 626 or the nearly identical 633 models - they are reasonably plentiful so I think you should be able to find one within a reasonable distance, or if not establish a phone/email relationship with an owner who is mechanically inclined and willing to be helpful.

Nifty little car, the 626. Best of luck with it, and please try to keep it authentic!! Buy the owner's manual reprint which has most of the basic service information in it, and get a parts book as well and copies of the factory service letters. Some of this information you'll find on this site for free download, if you want hardcopy go to The Packard Club site (www.packardclub.org) and you can purchase reprints from their on-line store. You can also buy copies from most of the national Packard vendors like Kanter, Max Merritt, etc.