Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

Hi quick question, I need two Thermostats, can I find them at NAPA or any local parts or do I have to order from a known Packard Parts supplier?

Napa has them - I run a 160 degree stat in 51 200. I also like to drill a small hole in them to allow all of the air to bleed out when you refill the system.

David, drilling a small hole in the thermostat is an old trick and a good one. As you say it helps the system to bleed air out when it has been drained and refilled. Also, the small hole allows for some circulation of coolant until the thermostat opens.

(o[]o)

What size hole, 1/8"?
Al

Quote:

Wesley, why do you need two thermostats? Your Clipper can only use one at a time. Just curious...

(o[]o)

Two Packards, three motors, but should I use the old style or is it okay to use the new style?

Wes, either new or old style should fit and function well. The old style bellows type thermo should not be used in a high pressure system, but since your Clipper has only a 4-7 lbs rating the bellows should work. The decision maker, to me, would be what temp ratings are available in each style. A 160F rating is what I would use. The new style thermos tend to come in higher temp ratings. I believe the 47 Clippers use a sleeve to hold the thermo in place in the housing and later models use a spring clip. This would be a good time to make sure your radiator cap is the right one and functioning.

(o[]o)

Thanks JW for the information, I re-watch my DIY video on the 1939 Packard by Mark L. and he says to use the Bellows style because it allows more water flow.
Yes it looks like I will also need a metal sleeve to hold it in place.
I found the information in the 1953 Service Technical Bulletin that talks about using the capsule type instead of the bellows due to the higher pressure in the newer cars.
Thanks again.
Wes

As far as the size of the hole, I honestly don't know. I just used a 1/16th" bit and it seems to work ok.