Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Thanks Howard! I'm on it.

TC

Hi Howard, change up.....how often does my 359 aluminum head need to be re-torqued? What are the torque specs and torque order?

TC

Others will better have an answer on the question of how often the head needs retorquing but here is the other info requested.

The tightening order is from the service manual and the torque spec for the aluminum head is from Tech Bulletin 54T-2.

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Keep checking the torque and tightening as needed until the fasteners longer require further tightening to meet the torque spec. Typically you may reach this point on the 3rd, perhaps 4th check, perhaps 6 months to a year after the car is put back into service.

Thank you.

TC

Hi Howard, all set, the Napa SL134 and Autozone/Duralast F4805 stop light switches fit perfectly. The Napa came with plumbers tape on it but did have a not approved for purple silicon DOT 5 brake fluid note attached. I use DOT 5 brake fluid. I still used the Napa switch and it worked fine. Another question, my backup lights don't work. I surmise that switch is toast as well. Where is the location of the back up light switch on the trans?

TC

On a 49-54 Ultra, unless the trans is the 54 gearstart the backup light switch is on a bracket down toward the bottom of the steering column where the pie shaped sector detent and shift lever assy is located. Switch and bracket is adjusted so the plunger is directly under the shift lever and gets pushed almost all the way in when the lever is fully seated in the reverse stop of the detent assy. The 54 switch gets power from the aux circuit breaker on the back of the cluster that is fed by the ign switch. I believe that is the CB closest to door.

On a gearstart it is a combo neutral start and backup switch positioned on the steering column higher up -- a few inches away from the firewall.

Thanks again. I'm on it.

TC

Hi Howard,
I believe I found the backup light switch. Can the switch be unscrewed from the bracket? The vendor sells the combo, but I don't need a bracket, just the switch. It was very visible at the end of the steering column in the engine bay.

TC

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You should be able to loosen the nut and either pull the switch out of the bracket or if it is not loose maybe it is one that unthreads too. The bracket does not need to be disturbed to change the switch.

I believe the switch is similar to earlier switches that can be opened up to clean or repair. Most have the fiber back or end with the terminals attached held to the metal case by some bent over prongs. Gently straighten the prongs while being careful to hold things together to keep everything under control. When the prongs are straight carefully remove the fiber and innards using whatever pressure is needed to keep any springs pushing against components from shooting anything out across the room.