Packard Forum Index » Modification Discussion

A heavy-duty ratchet strap can be used to squeeze the entire assembly together enough to get the pin back in.

Also, make sure the spring is properly oriented relative to the pockets.

Dumb question, are you sure the replacements are the correct ones?

I did hear about using the ratchet strap. Maybe or maybe not.

I got the springs from a reputable source who said they were supposed to be the right ones.
The length, coil size, turns, etc. all seem right. But it does seem too stiff.
I thought the same thing and may try to get them checked out to see if they match specs.

I did partially compress one and put it in place but it wouldn't compress completely. The car started
to lift up off the stand before the spring would compress. That leads me to think they are too
stiff.

They had different rates for different cars and also export usage.

Try measuring the wire diameter of both with a caliper.

If the car is on stands, it's likely that there is less than the normal amount of weight at the spring's location than would be present at the same point if the car was sitting level on its wheels. Car springs are very dangerous when compressed to any degree, and I'd want more than just a set of stands holding the car up and steady when working on the front suspension. Installing springs can cause the car to shift or tilt on the stands, or even fall over. Springs can remove fingers, teeth, and other body parts, or even knock your head clean off.

If needed, check with Eaton Spring.

Thanks but do have the car blocked and supported as per the service manual and safety experience.
I don't want to use a compressor in any case and am using all the steps listed in the SM.

I put the good old spring back in for a check and it compressed properly without raising the car.
I am pretty sure the replacement ones are too stiff. I will follow-up as needed with Eaton Detroit.
I have used them before for leaf springs.

The parts list shows 446330 as the spring part for my 53 car but when I pulled the original springs
out, they were stamped 446447. That part number shows up for the 54 models and not 53.
I am guessing that as my car is a late production unit, they used what they had available in stock.
The two springs were probably very close in specs.
Regards.