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1955 Clipper Deluxe Rubber Replacement
#1
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Keegan Chaput
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One of the first things I need to do to this car is replace just about every piece of rubber in the suspension and steering. I'm looking for a good source for these. I know about Steele Rubber Co. but I don't know of any others.

Also, has anyone replaced with urethane bushings instead? It would be the last time you'd ever have to do it.

Just curious.

Posted on: 2008/2/22 15:34
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Re: 1955 Clipper Deluxe Rubber Replacement
#2
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Owen_Dyneto
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I've bought various rubber parts from Steele for decades for a very large variety of Packards and must say I've always been extremely satisfied with the precision of fit and appearance. But I can't say the same for the performance of the suspension parts, they don't seem to last very long at all.

I've tried buying urethane rod stock, freezing it and lathe turning it for some simple bushings, but this really is not all that rewarding. I've been thru PST's catalog a few times looking for pieces that will fit in various Packards, but w/o success. If you come up with any urethane substitutes, I think all of here would love to get the details.

Posted on: 2008/2/22 18:33
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Re: 1955 Clipper Deluxe Rubber Replacement
#3
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Keegan Chaput
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Quote:

I've tried buying urethane rod stock, freezing it and lathe turning it for some simple bushings


Wow, I like your style! I'll be sure to share anthing I find when freshening up the chassis and suspension.

Posted on: 2008/2/23 13:36
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Re: 1955 Clipper Deluxe Rubber Replacement
#4
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BigKev
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For the main sway bar bushings on my '54 Clipper, I am using ones from Energy Suspension that are Poly bushings. But then again I had to make a spacer/adapter that allowed be to use a modern universal style bracket. That same thing would work on the '55 Clipper. BUT I had to order the replacement sway bar end link bushings from Steelerubber.

Posted on: 2008/2/23 19:37
-BigKev


1954 Packard Clipper Deluxe Touring Sedan -> Registry | Project Blog

1937 Packard 115-C Convertible Coupe -> Registry | Project Blog
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Re: 1955 Clipper Deluxe Rubber Replacement
#5
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Keegan Chaput
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I'm leaning towards that route as well for the sway bar. It looks like the sway bar took a hit on the passenger side and the bracket is a little bent. I can't say that I'm surprised it's bent. Those things look pretty flimsy and they hang down so far out in front, it's just a matter of time before they're smacked by something. A couple of new inner brackets and some universal bushings seem like the way to go.

Posted on: 2008/2/24 13:04
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Re: 1955 Clipper Deluxe Rubber Replacement
#6
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BigKev
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You just need to make a spacer to maintain the original swaybar position. I made both spacers from a 2" x 6" x 12" bar of aluminum.

Posted on: 2008/2/24 14:34
-BigKev


1954 Packard Clipper Deluxe Touring Sedan -> Registry | Project Blog

1937 Packard 115-C Convertible Coupe -> Registry | Project Blog
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Re: 1955 Clipper Deluxe Rubber Replacement
#7
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Keegan Chaput
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I love to see a picture of it if you get a chance. In fact I'd bet that there are plenty of mods people have done like this. Maybe a new forum category for custom mods? Or should we post them to the "tech tips" articles?

Posted on: 2008/2/24 14:45
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Re: 1955 Clipper Deluxe Rubber Replacement
#8
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BigKev
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Here is a picture of the bracket. More info can be found in my project blog.

Attach file:



jpg  (19.48 KB)
1_47c1d5e31c5d9.jpg 500X276 px

Posted on: 2008/2/24 15:38
-BigKev


1954 Packard Clipper Deluxe Touring Sedan -> Registry | Project Blog

1937 Packard 115-C Convertible Coupe -> Registry | Project Blog
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Re: 1955 Clipper Deluxe Rubber Replacement
#9
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Keegan Chaput
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That's awsome! Creations like this should have their own threads. I'm going to have to check out your blog for the details.

Thanks Kev!

Posted on: 2008/2/24 22:45
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