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

Question: The term shift on the fly. Does that refer to the automatic clutch? JE

The term "shift on the fly" usually applies to the four wheel drive system on Jeeps and pickup trucks. It is the ability to engage the 4X4 system while in motion. Some of the older designs required the vehicle to come to a complete stop before engaging 4WD by manually locking the hubs on the front axle.

And I may have used the expression not in a 4 wheel context but probably more a regional and maybe different elsewhere usage.

In my usage it would be more of a fast almost a racing type shift where you want a quick getaway and have the accelerator down with the engine somewhat powered while shifting thru the gears very rapidly.

Electromatics were typically adjusted for civilized use because most Packard owners wanted a more sedate and smooth controlled engagement. Adjusted that way, the mechanism did not handle powered or speed shifts well if the teenager "borrowed" dad's car.

OK. Thanks. Question answered. JE

In my part of the country I think this was called speed shifting. A term I remember from years ago.