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On my '34 eight I have to remove the generator. Is it save to start the engine without generator?

G'day '34 Rookie,
to PackardInfo.

I doubt it's a good idea to start and run your '34 Packard with the generator removed. I think, although I could be wrong, that the generator is driven by the timing chain and is a link in the timing chains structural integrity. If you are removing the generator you have to be VERY careful in it's removal. There are parts(somebody will give a much better/clearer explanation) that could fall into the timing case/sump if you're not careful.

After all that, I invite you to include your '34 Eight in the Packard Vehicle Registry.

As you slide the generator rearwards to remove, make absolutely certain the brass (or is it bronze?) adapter between the generator flange and the timing chain cover stays snugly in place!!! This will retain the timing chain drive in place.

NO, don't run the engine with the generator removed.

Yes you can run the motor provided you have secured the bronze gear quill with a washer pack and the generator nuts. Don't forget to take the slack out of the chain before tightening down the plate.

However, I don't think that's a great idea because the generator shaft provides a level of axial stability. The quill holds the gear from falling with the generator out. With the generator out you can inspect the depth of the quill that holds the gear. It's been a long time, but I know I've seen those motors run without the generator as in cars that are partially assembled.

Brass: An alloy of copper and zinc.

Bronze: An alloy of copper and tin

Have several washers on hand so that when you separate the generator from the adaptor (that needs to stay in place) you can place on the mounting studs and reapply the nuts so the adaptor stays put. I wouldn't even think about running the engine for fear of fouling the timing works and having to rip the front end of the car off to replace it all.

Thanks for all the information. I guess I will have to tow the car then.

Guntram('34 Rookie), for including your '34 Eight Sedan in the Packard Vehicle Registry.

That's the right answer. Don't even THINK about cranking that car without the generator in place - you will end up pulling the entire front of your car apart to disassemble the front of the motor and get the timing put back right, definitely not worth it.

The parts book shows part number 115275 "motor generator sprocket support". If you take that out with the generator the gear falls out of place.

So what happens when one of those 12 volt conversion guys hangs a modern generator on the motor?

Maybe somewhere on junktube there is a video of one of those motors running without the generator in it.