Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

I've been having issues with shudder and shake in a '37 120. Most of the steering parts are new or as new, but the torque arm rubber bushings are failing. That's probably a contributing factor. I've tried rotating the tires, which show no visible evidence of being out of round. They are Lester polyester cord tires. Today, I noticed that the wheel weights interfere with the trim rings seating fully and evenly on the wheel rims. I doubted if they weighed enough to cause trouble, but I decided to try running without them. Removing them almost elimninated the shudder and shake. I think there used to be wheel weights with an extended clip for use on older cars with trim rings or full wheel covers like the Cadillac "sombrero" covers. Stick on weights might be another option.

I always specify to put weights only on the inside which usually can be done. That way, the outside for the trim ring or full wheel cover is left fully intact and accessible. I just did that a while back for my 1951 Henney-Packard and again a few weeks ago for the new DiamondBacks on my 1965 Cadillac which has no room for weights outside unless they are bonded to the rim rather than being clipped to the edge.

I use stick weight on the inside as well on my 54. Cleaner look, no interference with hub caps or trim rings.