Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

After several months of false starts, it appears (knock on wood) that Tuesday is the day it all starts.

What I could use from you is any late starting thoughts on the process as I turn it over to the mechanic.

We will be installing a Mark III underdash system with Sanden compressor and the rest from Vintage Air.

Also scheduled is a new alternator (single wire GM type, I believe).

We have a Packard six bladed fan and are considering electric fans in front of the radiator.

The cooling system will be flushed as a precaution, since it seems ok.

The air and the electric fan will run from two relay circuits to eliminate stress on the ignition switch.

We have suitable brackets from Mike Dulinski.

What else should I do or consider?

A sight glass for the AC system PROPERLY INSTALLED. Mechanic will try to talk u out of it.

IIRC u are stubborn to a fault about needing the electric fan and alternator. Be stubborn the for the sight glass too.

Curious how you decided to control the extra fans. On whenever AC is turned on or with a separate thermostat so only on if needed or strictly manual control via switch.

Just out o curiosity are u using the cast iron OEm Packard braket for mounting the AC compressor???? (IT mounts to the LEFT head, T'stat housing bolts and OEM Packard bracket has bolt bosses to relocate oil filter to RITE side of engine).

Double check the amperage output of the SINGLE wire Delcotron vs standard vs OEM generator. I mite be wrong but IIRC the single wire alternator is rather low output compared to standard delco alternator as well as OEM generator.

Answers, in no particular order:

On the fan will probably go automatic with manual control as well.

Alternator is 65 amps....

Brackets are both custom made by Mike; the a/c bracket is not poriginal type. Alt goes in generator spot.

This is a 134 system where a sight glass is said not to work. Can you elaborate on why I should have one?

Take alook at this:

http://bob_skelly.home.comcast.net/~bob_skelly/alternator_conversion/wiring_alternator1.html

Excerpt from above web site:

Some of the disadvantages associated with the 1-wire system are:

Less than optimal voltage levels at points downstream from the alternator;
The ignition warning light is omitted;
At startup, a slow-running engine will not be spinning fast enough to turn-on the alternator and the system will be discharging until the throttle is blipped and the engine revs higher than the alternator cut-in speed.
Higher cost than 3-wire equivalent