Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

My '47 Super Clipper has an issue that has gotten worse over time. There's a loud clunk when I brake and pulls hard from that wheel

Looking at the brakes and suspension, I don't see anything obvious (see pic)

Experience it more when turning left and braking.

Any thoughts on what to look for or where to start?

Attach file:

---

  IMG_2157.jpeg (303.46 KB)

Check the king pins, shock mounts and any anti-sway bushings it might have. Although less likely, check the tie rod ends too.

I wouldn't drive it like that.

Take the shoes off and lay them in the drum. If the drum in beyond discard you may be getting too much self energizing.

Check the wheel bearings for damage that may cause the same symptom.

After that pull the right rear drum and check for contamination.

Thanks for feedback so far. Will check the suspension again.

I didn't see anything loose or misaligned, definitely no play in the wheel when I try to move it.

Will check more

Attach file:

---

  IMG_2162.jpeg (202.24 KB)

Check that the bolts that hold the backing plate and the steering arm to the knuckle are tight. Just had a car in where they weren't which created entirely too much excitement.

Since it seems to be on the right front make sure the vehicle has not been in an accident and somehow slightly bent the wheel support spindle shaft. Probably not that, but did happen on one of my vehicles many years ago.

The pulling sounds like it could be a collapsed brake hose or sticking wheel cylinder. But the clunk doesn't really fit.

had a customer with a 61 chrysler 300 that did the same thing. found out that the new wheel cylinders were made in china. the bores were too large and what would happen was the pistons would get crooked in the bore and cause the drums to slam on. had to replace with 3 sets before i found 2 good ones that stopped this problem. generally the problem was worse when cold and got better as the car was driven and got hot.not sure if this is exactly what happens to yours or not but just some food for thought.im glad people make some new parts for old cars but you have to be very careful and inspect them well before installing. hope this can help

Thanks everyone for the tips.

I went back to check the play again.

I checked left to right and it was fine, but I tried top and bottom and there is movement, especially loose on the bottom side.

Reading other posts, sounds like it might be a king pin issue. I don't understand why that would create a clunk, but it feels like replacing king pins would be the right next step. It would explain why it's been getting worse over the last couple years. I've been putting about 2 - 300 miles per year.

Does that make sense to everyone else?