Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

My friend had new brakes installed on his 56 Patrician.The mechanic checked the fluid in the differential.He said there was a quite of bit of pressure built up when he removed the cap so he suggested my friend clean the vent.Was under the car saturday and could not locate it.Does anyone know where it is?

Good question. Prior to 56 it had been a drilled passage in the bolt that holds the brass brake hose/tube junction block on L top side of housing. For 56, along with new rear end, parts manual shows that screw was changed. Unknown if the passage is still there or not. That would be my suggestion but since you were under and saw nothing, apparently there was no loose fitting crimped style cover on that bolt. If not there, then I would like to learn too as didn't see a mention of a change in the 56 supplement.

Member PackardV8 posted the answer to this mystery, as a side note, in another thread from awhile back:

packardinfo.com/xoops/html/modules/newbb ... orum=3&post_id=48048#forumpost48048

The bolt that holds the rear brake line juntion block to the top of the axle can be changed/modified to allow for a cap vent too.

How many of u 56 owners have leaking rear axles at the puddle weld where the axle housings insert into the centre carrier housing????

Isn't the rear end on a 56 a GM rear end? Or from a supplier that made them for GM? I haven't driven mine yet, so I can't say if its a problem on mine or not.

It's a Dana rear end.

I have similar issue with the rear axle on my 56 Clipper. At least 3 of the welds allow oil to seep out and over time drip onto the ground. I haven't tried to fix as yet but would be grateful if anyone has a solution. My 400 seems OK - however this vehicle isn't on the road as yet... Warren

clean the welds with a good solvent. Use Seal-All cement. Used the Seal all in other applications with good results. Hav'nt tried the packard axle yet.,

Thanks - was going to try a similar approach... I'll advise the results when I do...