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

I own a 1942 Packard 180 Touring Sedan with Sidemounts. I am considering replacing my front coil springs because they are sagging a bit. I have access to a new set of front springs for a 1941 Packard 160 with sidemounts. Does anyone know if the springs are the same for the 1942 180 vs 1941 160.

The Packard Data Book for 1941 shows a 1875x95 Rated Coil for 1941 160 & 180. I do not have a Data Book for 1942. If someone does, it'd be helpful to know the coil spring rating for my Model 2007.

Any assistance will be greatly appreciated.
JOHN in OREGON

It seems you already know that sidemounted cars had different springs. I would be very surprised if there was any change from 41 to 42.

When I queried the folks at Max Merritt, they gave me different spring ratings for the 41 160 vs. 42 180 (both cars w sidemounts). the rating for the 42 was almost double the rating for the 41.

Others have said there shouldn't be any difference. Does anyone have any additional info or can lead me to another source for the info I need?

You might compare what spring options were offered in the parts books. Perhaps the 42 spring rate that was quoted is for a fully loaded model or something different from yours. Maybe one with AC.

Unlike the 41 book, we don't have the 42 book on site to download but if no one has one to review a repro 42 conventional body parts book is available for purchase at the PAC online store.

The 1935-41 and 1942 parts lists both show spring #354691 for 160 and 180 5 passenger sedans, load 1990 and rate 100
Bear in mind that the data book was printed before production and the parts lists show what was available to dealers from the factory for replacement items, not necessarily what was originally installed.
I suspect that the 1941 160 springs should work just fine for your 1942 180

eatondetroitspring.com/

ask an expert.

Thanks to all of you who replied with the very helpful information. It seems like all of you agreed that the front coil springs on a 1941 Packard 160 are the same as the ones on my 1942 Packard 180. Not sure why the parts distributor told me otherwise. Will inquire again. JOHN

Howard,
Very helpful info. Will look into getting a 42 Packard parts book online from PAC.