Packard Forum Index » Project Blogs

Just to report that the Duchess is running better than ever.

BOOT: I'm trying to find an original boot or 'envelope' for a 1940 or a 1941 convertible sedan, Section 31.443 Envelope, Top, Assembly, PN# 950413. The Packard Club and the Studebaker Museum do not have the blueprints for this part.

I have a recollection of my original one which was mildewed and water stained. I couldn't make it fit because I didn't know how to put the top down correctly at the time, so I threw it away. That was in 1960. I was a kid. I hadn't learned to save EVERYTHING.

I would like to borrow an original one for a 1377-1397 or 1477-1497 so the upholsterer can make a pattern. Please, no one get upset, but my recall of the original one does not match any I have seen on restored cars. The main difference is that the original has stiffening board and seams that kept the boot in straight lines down the sides and across the back. "As I recall, 60 years ago."

I don't care what condition it is in. I will pay costs to ship and back and provide a pattern for making new ones. IanGabrielle has not responded to my PM, so if you know him, maybe you could ask him for me. Any help, photos or advice would be appreciated.

Quote:
Joe, you can rest assured because this is a completely normal feeling for every man when it comes to his early love.

I just popped the end of a leaf spring. Rather loud. Was able to drive home no problem. Any recommendations on getting new ones? I will search for intake leaf spring mfrs. , but would like a rec from somebody has used them. I’m leaving for 2 weeks so it’s a perfect opportunity to get it done.

Would it be safe to drive a few miles to the shop or would the body come down on the wheel?

Attach file:

---

  IMG_7049.jpeg (102.65 KB)


  IMG_7051.jpeg (152.17 KB)

Can't answer the safe to drive question but have you tried Eaton Detroit Spring on new ones. Packard does not show in their drop down menu so I don't know if they still accept Packard orders and it will probably take a phone call to find out. They claim to have thousands of original blueprints they can use to make springs to order and also mention doing custom springs. They made front springs for my 47 but that was 7-8 years ago.

Thanks, Howard,
I'll call in the morning. I also found A-1 Shock Absorber, but not sure if they are a reseller or manufacturer. I'll call both. And Kanter whose new site indicates they no longer carry parts for 1940 Super 8, which must be wrong.

My springs are original. I'm sure, after almost 450,000 miles, they've had it.

Eaton Detroit Spring is the place. Expected in 2-3 weeks custom forged and assembled.

QUESTION: Should they be treated in some way? Coated or painted before installed? I'm looking at the increased amount of rust corrosion since moving to Maryland's salted winter roads. The originals went 450,056 miles!

Yes...Eaton Detroit Spring...We purchased new rear springs from them, they made the originals for Packard, according to them. The new springs fit perfectly and have performed well for the last seven years that they have been under the car. They shipped uncreated with a toe tag on them...the gromets came in a little box. Took three weeks. Ernie in Arizona

Thanks, Ernie, that’s good to hear. I asked Eaton if they can coat them. I fly to Phoenix tomorrow on my way to Oakland from Dulles. I hope the tires don’t melt when we touch down. 113 degrees? Yikes.

Oakland's high today is 66 degrees and only 56 at the moment! It was 81 there a couple days ago but that was the warmest in a long time.

The springs were forged by Eaton Detroit Spring. New bushings. The shackles (new from Max Merritt) and u-bolts (made by local spring co) were rusted, as were the front shackle bolts. The rear springs are almost finished with installation.
With the tanked dropped, the fuel level sender was straightened for the new deeper tank.
The front steering crank and ball stud were worn so a NOS one installed sent from Flackmaster.
mktx.com/packard/wornsteeringcrank.mov
There was an electrical problem with my 6v-12v converter. That was chased down and fixed.
I had 2 seat belts installed in the front seat.
The under the seat heater motor bearings got wobbly. I had a spare.
Also had some
Maintenance done. Tire rotation, radiator flush, lube and drive train fill check.

Attach file:

---

  IMG_7171.jpeg (3,357.37 KB)


  IMG_3800.jpeg (3,416.22 KB)


  IMG_3869.jpeg (3,606.57 KB)


  74248140575__541B09FD-8732-464F-8C77-9E9F72690E1B.jpeg (190.15 KB)