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

Good morning all,

I am trying to figure out the correct operation for the center hood hinge on my '32. It doesn't have what looks to be a "traditional" hinge. It almost seems as if the center strip "bends" as the hood is opened. Is that correct? I just want to make sure that I am not causing any unnecessary damage when opening the hood.

Thank you!

Stan

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Here is a second photograph.

Stan

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And a third.

Stan

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  Hood Hinge 01.jpg (152.49 KB)

Looks very normal to me. this is actually a covered piano hinge. Taking it apart is quite a job with a million small screws.

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The parts do not bend. It's a good idea to clean out dirt and loose rust with compressed air and them apply some lubrication.

I've used Micromist on similar hinges and it works well. You may have to wipe away excess oil for a few days.

A dry hinge will bind and rust, and can cause damage due to excess friction.

Avoid forcing the hood or allowing it to fall open or shut. It's a good idea to secure it somehow if you have to open it outdoors on a windy day.

Just confirming, your hinge is correct as shown and the same as my 1934. And as noted by others, lubricate occasionally.

Good morning,

Thanks for the info!

I uploaded another photo.

Just to verify: The chrome piece attached to the hood itself is designed to rotate around the bottom center strip?

Mine is definitely not doing that (and I don't think it has for years). I lubricated it but it is in pretty rough shape.

I will be purchasing a new center strip and installing that soon.

Stan

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You should be able to remove the center rod by sliding the hood sections off. You could also pull the center rod out completely. You need to hold the hood sides at the same time so need two people. When you remove the center rod you could just sand it down with emery cloth or one of the sponge pads and reuse it. It is just plain steel. You could also use a block of wood and a hammer and drive it out. I doubt it is stuck too much. The stainless hinge is good quality and should not be stuck too bad. Mine came right out and required a little sanding to make it look like new. A light coat of grease is all that was needed to make it work easily.