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Hi, first time posting. I have a new to me 51 Packard 200 Deluxe that has high idle, >800 RPMs and running rich. While adjusting the idle speed and mixture screws, I noticed a vacuum leak at the start switch. The switch is no longer in use as I have a push button under the ignition key. Is this fixable?



Thanks
David DePascal
Metairie, LA

sorry...noob at posting

Do you mean "fix" it so you have the original carburetor starter switch, or are you just looking to plug the hole so you don't have a vacuum leak?

Do you mean "fix" it so you have the original carburetor starter switch, or are you just looking to plug the hole so you don't have a vacuum leak?

fix the leak. just need the car running better. Thanks!

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I would think if you cleaned it with a bit of carb cleaner, make sure it's nice and dry and then squish some sealant, such as Permatex 2, in there that should do the trick.

The leak is because when removing the starter switch you probably removed a small ball along with the switch. In operation, when the engine is off the ball falls down in the Ball passage to the position shown in the illustration. When the car starts, vacuum pulls the ball up in the passage to rest against a seat at the top of the passage keeping it held up and cutting off the vacuum so there is no leak. The raised ball also prevents the accelerator linkage from activating the switch until the engine is stopped and vacuum goes away.




If you are never going to use the starter switch then Permatex would probably work OK but if you might want to go back to stock or maybe a next owner wants the carb switch then try only to use the minimal amount needed to stop the leak. You don't want to use too much and get any in the shaft area. Removing the stuff from a well filled passage could also be difficult .

I would kindly suggest just fixing the switch as it's very neat and adds to the character of the car. A helpful aid if you have a manual transmission, as well.

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Of course this is the best answer! Not only is it a very cool feature, but the more original the better! IMHO

Why are they bypassed?? I ask because so far mine has been reliable. Do they wear out? Maybe get sticky and become unreliable?

I checked mine out when I rebuilt my carburetor and there was no visible wear, or anything to cause me concern.

I agree to fix the switch and ditch the push button! I’ve had many Packards with the Carter in-carburetor switch and never any problems so probably just lack of use and just laziness of a previous owner to allow it to get to the point that it failed.