Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Thanks Man

Would it make sense to put the Volkswagen and Harley switch (along with the aftermarket equivalent) in the X-Ref? I assume the Harley Switch would work for the 1951-54's as well with the TreadlevaC?

Yes, please include them. All the two-prong switches are the same.

One thing I am a bit concerned about with at least the SL-134 Napa switches is the fact several have said they had issues and the switch threads leak. I am one who had issues on the 47 yet others have not experienced a problem.

Packard said their ports are 1/8 NPT and Napa says the switches are too. Am wondering if there could be some sloppy Chinese threads on the switches or if one of the components is actually threaded 1/8 straight instead of NPT.

I've used the Napa switches for years and have never had a leak, nor have I ever seen one with straight threads. Maybe over tightening caused a crack, which is more likely.

The switch I just got from Napa (SL-134), came with thread tape already applied.

Definitely no cracks and I even bought a new block screw thinking there was some damage to the switch port threads. Finally used non hardening Permatex to seal mine.

The inclusion of thread tape is interesting and must be a fairly recent change -- at least in the last year or two. Can you tell if it is the regular teflon tape or something else? Most switches I have seen are just bare threads. Even more interesting is the Napa photos of their SL134 show the tape used on the Echlin version but not on the lower cost MPE version. The usual places that deal with brake components say not to use teflon tape but Napa must approve of whatever they used. Since that should offer a better chance at a good seal, perhaps it should be specified in the xref to only use the Echlin switch.

When I was playing with the 56 some of the line components -- inline fittings and valves in particular -- had a red and fairly hard sealing compound painted on the threads.