Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

The unit was redone about 8 months ago. Maybe they should change the article to get a rebuild every 6 months

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Eric asks:
"That's what needs to be analyzed."

That's an easy one. It's called a Dash Plaque.

That says it all.End of subject.

Here it the article for what its worth.

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Thanks Brian51. Excellent article and well written by what appears to be an author with good objective experience.

I think a reasonalbe person would take that article well to heart. In my opinion it is a subtle tho nonetheless strong suggestion to abandon the BTV.

3 to 5 year replacement/rebuild schedule is simply not acceptable.

However, i am amazed that correction to the seal wearing that fast, as mentioned in the article, has not been corrected with some modern replacement. Also somekind of atmosphereic seal as found on modern master cylinders since about 1969 should also be part of the correction/update for the BTV.

Packard34. Read the above article that Brians51 posted. NOTE THAT IT INDICATES FLUID SUCKED FRoM THE MASTER CYLINDER.

Please caefully check the VACUUM POWER CANnister of your unit to see if it has brake fluid INSIDE of it and measure amount if possible.

BEFORE disassembly check near the bottom of the unit precisely where the master cylin der mates to the power unit. Check for brake fluid haveing leaked from that mateing surface area. Any leaked brake fluid should be evident EXTERNALY near the BOTTOM mating surface where the master cylinder mates to the power unit.

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I must say that for something as serious as a brake failure, I'm suprised at the lack on intellectual curiousity by some who ordinarily show a good grasp of mechanical devices to want to know the cause of the failure, amd if the TV, what failed. For those who may want to keep their cars authentic, this information would be far more valuable than all the passionate chatter. Reminds me of "don't confuse me with facts, I've already made up my mind". As rebuilders and sellers of TVs rarely have a return, there is something yet to be learned here and having a closed mind doesn't add to the world's knowledge. My last words on this aspect of this topic.

Quote:
<p>The irrefutable FACT is that the BTV fails totally, completely and without warning, putting all at risk. Given that FACT from personal experience as well as the experience of many others I have personally talked with, I indeed have made up my mind to replace the dreaded BTV with something vastly safer.</p>

Quote: <p>Who says that is true? I have 3 rebuilt BTVs from 3 different rebuilders that I would not wish on my worst enemy. So, I'm supposed to return it to the rebuilder so he can "fix" it and foist this dangerous device on to an unsuspecting future customer? Not on your life! For my part, I've taken them out of circulation permanently.</p>
<p>Craig</p>