Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Good tips and interesting seeing a 1955 without power brakes!

For a 56 car:

I took my dash out around the steering column, as the AC install manual recommended. But this is kinda dumb. You should peel back the carpet and remove the kick plate to which the brake cylinder is attached. Then disconnect the steering column from the gearbox, also the ultramatic linkage and wiring there. Then remove the clamp under the dash and remove the steering column. By the way this same trick can be done on a 55 except the entire gearbox must be unbolted from the frame and Pitman arm detached.

The dash itself is NOT hard to remove. Remove the lower and side windshield trim then remove the 9 self tappers. Then only a bolt on either lower side. The problem is the dash wiring. You MIGHT be able to hinge it down and disconnect/reconnect everything. If not, either get behind it, or disconnect all engine side harnesses and loosen the clamp; push them thru the firewall.