Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

Hi there...What type of fluid goes into the front shocks. Per the shop manual, mine are down a bit.

ALSO, what color should the shock absorbers be? I am thinking a matte grey, similar to the intake manifold.

Thanks
Gar

Refill with common hydraulic oil, I use a Mobil product but there are many brands on the market. In a pinch, hydraulic jack oil should also be satisfactory. I can't comment with authority on color but I'd be extremely surprised if they weren't painted with chassis black.

The shocks were painted along with the chassis so were black.

Gentlemen:
Thank you both for your valuable input.

Gar

Hey my 49 Packard std8 needs fluid in the front shocks, so how do you fill and can I use the Kubota hydraulic fluid that I put in my tractor hydraulic system. Needs something bad because its handling rather nautical on the country roads.
Thanks!

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Here is a photo showing the fill plug and instructions on how much to use. The fill hole is fairly small and may be hard to reach with all the inner fender metal surrounding it. You will need a small funnel or some kind of hose applicator that will be able to fit.

Shock needs a non foaming or non aerating oil and most use hydraulic jack oil. Not familiar with the tractor hydraulic fluid you mention but as long as it is petroleum based and not a synthetic that might have issues with any of the old oil still inside the shock it should be OK.

If the arm seals on either side of the shock are worn the new oil will leak out in a short amount of time. If that happens the only repair option is a rebuilt shock.

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