Packard Forum Index » Project Blogs

Probably quite a long shot but many old time mechanics kept a collection of input shafts from trashed transmissions for use as alignment tools. I'll bet a lot have also been installed using a broomstick handle or similar adapted to fit. Got a wood lathe?

I have made my own on a wood lathe. Splines not necessary. In a pinch I have used a wooden dowel built up by wrapping it with tape. Have also seen a mechanic line up the clutch disc "by eye" before tightening the pressure plate.

Quote:

That's what my dad did and I've still got his. Luckily, Chevy has the same 10 spline shaft as Packard does, so it works.

Incidentially, most newer clutch kits come with a plastic alignment tool that looks just like a plastic input shaft.

Hmm, if chevy 10 spline 1 1/8 inch fits, I may just get the plastic plug. will make things a little quicker in the garage, and more tools in the toolbox Thanks for the packardinfo!

Well, a few steps forward. I brought the block to the machine shop on friday, and they will measure the bores and make the call on what oversize pistons will go in. Then after I get the pistons here, they will measure the exact piston size, and add the prescribed free play and bore the cylinders accordingly. Anybody know what the piston free play should be?
In german 'tinkering' is called screwing, which is 'schrauben'. My packard work recently has been more 'schrubben' than 'schrauben'. More scrubbing than screwing....I think I have tennis elbow from cleaning away dried grease, grime, bitumen rust protection and paint....
One thing I couldn't get apart was the clutch torsion shaft from the frame. How do I get the shaft out?
I have been using a chemical to remove the rust protector and paint which is working well. I put in on, let it sit for a week, and then use my putty knife to remove the old rust protector and paint. Also removed the steering links to cleann and paint. Guess I need a special tool to take apart the center link, right?
Plan is to be on the road for next sping/summer. Hope I get to oktoberfest someday too.

Attach file:

---

  (199.02 KB)


  (275.61 KB)


  (242.03 KB)


  (176.65 KB)

Can't tell if already removed but is there a pinch lock on the lever on opposite side of the shaft going to clutch pedal that has to loosen so shaft can come off? There may also be a pin or key of some sort thru lever and shaft. The parts manual also mentions 3.13854 as a retainer, washer. Is there any kind of clip ring in a groove around the shaft that would prevent movement.

Attach file:

---

  (30.77 KB)

Ahh, the language barrier...

Quote:
I'm betting that there was a lot of "schrauben" going on in the back seat of your Packard when it was new.

And I don't mean "tinkering", if you know what I mean..

Under the pinch lever connector is a woodruf key, that I guess has to come out. I'll have to fight with that a little more. The whole thing was really greasy, they didn't forget to grease that fitting!
And I won't comment on the 'schrauben' other than people have told me the leaf springs squeak.

Quote:

That's why you get a V8 car with Torsion Level man!

nice project you have here. who ever told you that a painted grill is cheap and truck like needs to be refered to this book:

packard motor cars: 1946-1958 photo archive

in it are several 51-54 models wearing painted outer grill shells with chrome centers. and these are FACTORY Packard produced photos! so if you want to get real picky your painted grill could be considered "correct" even if no 51-54 ever left the factory that way!