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

I recall that the '35 S8 start button (and maybe other years) has a security or safety feature - screw inward or outward to disable the starter circuit? If this this correct, which position enables the starter? I am all mixed up!

I am not a 35 guy to know about anything special with the starter button but looking thru what literature I have around 35 there is no mention of that feature. Prior to the early 40s, some models had start buttons which were active all the time and starter motors could actually be energized with the key off. While the engine would crank with the key off and car would move if the transmission was in gear it would not start. That always on button was completely eliminated around 40-41.

What I did find is that high end models of the mid 30s era did have a special ignition switch that when in the off position had a terminal which grounded the coil so it was impossible to hot wire the car and start it. Later models eliminated that grounded coil feature but ran the power wire from the ignition switch to the coil in a steel jacket armored cable to an enclosed and protected terminal on the end of the coil which could not be quickly or easily accessed for hot wiring. That feature stopped after 47 when they went to regular coils and wiring so after 48 Packard coils and cars became as vulnerable to a hot wire as any other brand.

Thank you for the great electrical info. I'm preparing to get into storage facility to check on my late father's Packard, and want to be as prepared as possible. Thanks again.

G'day D_F_S,
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