Classic/Antique Car Repair/38 Packard clutch

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Expert: - 3/5/2010


Question
I believe the clutch is sticking to the flywheel on my 6 cyl '38 Packard after its stored for more than a month or so.   When this has happened in the past, and the clutch finally broke free, the clutch and transmission worked perfectly, so I don't think it's a tranny issue. Is there an easy way of "freeing" the clutch, and is this a sign of a worn seal leaking onto the face of the flywheel?

Answer
The problem is a combination of humidity, the pressure of the pressure plate, and a thin coat of rust developing on the flywheel. In one of my old Audel manuals they advise blocking the clutch pedal down in the disengaged position when the car is "to be put up for the winter". So the problem is not just your car but a universal problem.
Brad

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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