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

inherited a 48 2201 model.

I cleaned the carburetor starting switch. Now when I turn the key to the on position, the car starts without me stepping on the accelerator. I reversed the 2 wires at he carburetor, and same thing occurres. Could it be a faulty ignition switch?

It means the starter switch is stuck. It should only come on when the pedal is pushed to the floor. Then when the car starts, the vacuum pulls the check ball and prevents it from activating the starter when the engine is running.

Something is stuck or misadjusted if the switch is engaging without the pedal.

I doubt that the ignition switch is at fault as it does not have any connection to the solenoid. It sounds like an issue with the switch. Are you sure that the actuator ball in the carburetor is free to move? If it were stick downward, it would actuate the switch.

Check for obvious vacuum leaks while you're at it.

Second on doubts it is the ign switch. That only provides the power to the starter switch. Make sure the starter switch is properly assembled with the switch plunger oriented properly so ball can work. Check the condition of the plunger return spring, shim washer thickness and placement and "W" spring terminal condition.

Here is bit on the switch from an old Motors Manual and another piece by Carter Carburetor which someone posted. The extra comments with the unobtainium description of hard to find parts sounds like a Ross post.

Attach file:

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Carb switch1.pdf Size: 285.77 KB; Hits: 83
carter carstarter V2.pdf Size: 612.24 KB; Hits: 89

Thank you very much. That picture with the order of item help tremendously. Got it running. Now onto the brakes

Howard if those Bakelite guides are worth reproducing, let me know; if anyone has a good one handy I can CAD it up and get some made.