28 Hudson Landau clutch cover

WaynePorter

Hi All; 

I'm new to the HET club and web site. Just bought a '28 Hudson Super Six Custom Landau 4 door 5 passenger Sedan this week. O wheelbase & Murphy body by Briggs. I am it's third owner, and I love this baby. It's a driver; almost. It has resided in a private museum for the last 35 years and the clutch is stuck. The generator also registers at (-)10 amps on the dash gauge. The engine started up and seems to run fine...except I think one valve started sticking open after about 45 minutes of run time, (had 80 lbs of head pressure which dropped to 15 lbs...also started making a little noise). 

I've read up on how to free the clutch...soaking in solvent (I'm using paint thinner), and rocking back and forth after a week or two of rotating it 90 degrees. Waiting for results on that process. Would acetone work better? 

Does anyone have any idea of how to determine if the generator is working? I would sure appreciate some advice on that.

I would also like to know what the head pressure should be. All cylinders were at about 30 lbs until I used a little kerosene. Then they all went up to about 60 lbs except #2 which jumped to 84 and later dropped to 15. 

I know I'm asking a lot for one post, but any help anyone can provide would be appreciated. 

A few items I need in case anyone knows where I might come by them:

A cover for the ring gear / clutch. 

Strap material for the front shocks (one is missing) 

Windshield wiper arm and blade

Door handle 

Everything seems to be original with one exception...someone added an electric fuel pump. 

Two things really surprised me on this car: Aluminum body panels; and this thing has a radio which lights up and hums to me...just hums no music. Guess I'll have to check for vacuum tubes etc. Yes, I'm old enough to know what they are, and I believe that's a good thing. When I was about 22 years old I was offered a vacuum tube tester for free...should accepted it and stored it for the last 45 years. 

Thanks in advance for any help; 

Wayne

Jon B

Yes, try acetone in the clutch cocktail!

46HudsonPU

Welcome aboard! 

Good to have you.  I'm sure you'll find a wealth of information here.

You may also want to visit the Hudson Essex Terraplane Club website, and consider joining that Club - Members come for the cars, and stick around because of the great folks there!

We hope you enjoy your time here at the Hudson Essex Terraplane 'Open Forum' -

lostmind

You should have your clutch pedal wedged down to the floor while you are soaking in the solution. Usually a piece of wood between the steering wheel and pedal works. Try some lacquer thinner in your mixture , usually works. Rocking the car may free it , but the chance of tearing the corks are higher.

essexcoupe3131

welcome aboard to our madness

AdamB

Hi Wayne,
Welcome from another newbie.  And now I know who got to that car before me
But no hard feelings.  I got the burgandy/black '28 Standard Sedan for sale at the same time
Adam

paulrhd29nz

Wayne, congrats !  A nice car. Send me a photo of the handle you need, there are a few different types for BS 28's. I may have one. I will likely have your flywheel cover as well.

As for compression , keep in mind that you are only around 5 : 1. so if you have 60 across after a 35 year sit, I would be happy. With a little oil now and then in the cylinders The rings will likely loosen up a bit more.

If your valve continues to stick, Take of the gallery cover and with the motor running put vise grips on the stuck valve and move it side to side. Not for the faint of heart! but works.

Wayne and Adam, you both will want to get on to our Yahoo site. It is dedicated to 1916 to 1929 Hudsons only.

It is where all the information and answers are to keep enjoying your Supper Six. This site is Great but the people here are mostly into them new fangled Hudsons.

HudsonSuperSix16-29       See if this link works.

AdamB

Wayne and Adam, you both will want to get on to our Yahoo site. It is dedicated to 1916 to 1929 Hudsons only. It is where all the information and answers are to keep enjoying your Supper Six. This site is Great but the people here are mostly into them new fangled Hudsons.

HudsonSuperSix16-29       See if this link works.

Works for me, thanks!