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

Took my Clipper to a front end shop this morning. Found a few things that need to be replaced. King pins seem to be a problem that I'm not sure how to address. Showed obvious wear. Thought and suggestions are needed. Thanks. Steve

You didn't mention a year but If it is just king pins, IMO the best approach would be to get a king pin kit for both sides and do that alone. Max has the 51-4 standard steering pin and bushing/bearing set at a reasonable cost. He has other kits for the different configurations. If you need a whole front end kit then Kanter might have just the pin and bushing kits but he also has more complete sets which includes king pins and other front end pieces such as tie rod ends among other parts -- but those kits are much more expensive.

If your kit is the type with bushings that need a reamer the proper size is frequently found on ebay. The same size was used in other cars.

It is a 53. Needs tie rod ends and one sleeve. The front end guy said the king pins were the problem. Mentioned that I would have to find someone that does those. You mentioned a reamer? Is that what he was referring to most likely?

Whether it needs reaming depends on what is in the kit and for that you would have to receive the kit or else check with the vendor supplying the kit. Max's kit in the link I posted shows needle bearings so nothing other than someone with a press for inserting the bearings into the knuckle would be required. Napa might do it but a machine shop could also do them. That could be just a generic photo on Max's site so you do need to have them in hand or check before shipment to know what is needed. There are some illustrations in the suspension section of SM showing the basic procedure to replace the king or knuckle pins.

If the kit has Oilite bushings, those do not ream but may need burnishing which is a different procedure. Not all do need burnishing though. Old style bushings would need the reaming and probably burnishing too.

Thanks Howard. I appreciate your advice and direction. I ordered the complete deluxe kit from Kanter.