1933 clutch fluid

Hello, I have owned a ‘35 Terraplane for 20+ years. I use Hudsonite fluid in the clutch. I recently purchased a 1933 Essex and the owners information manual says “use a mixture of 1/2 kerosene and 1/2 engine oil”. Is that what people are running in their 1933 clutches?

regards, Tom

Comments

  • I use the Hudsonite clutch fluid. Doug Wildrick sells it.

  • tigermoth
    tigermoth Expert Adviser

    thank you

  • D7fever
    D7fever Member

    My father ran Hudsons from late '30s to mid '50's, he used the 50/50 mixture you posted. Never had a problem. I have been using ATF.

  • Geoff
    Geoff Senior Contributor


    There is nothing specifically different about a '33 clutch, as far as lubricant is concerned. What has changed is the specifications of oil and kerosene. In 1933 oils did not have friction modifiers, and kerosene was "oilier" than today. If you were to mix modern multi-grade oil and kerosene it would do the job perhaps, but will more than likely cause bit of shuddeer when engaging, due to the increased "slipperiniss" of the mix. Stick to Dexron 3 or replacement Hudsonite.

  • tigermoth
    tigermoth Expert Adviser
    edited May 4

    Thanks Geoff, I did not know what was in the clutch so I drained, flushed and used Hudsonite from the club


    regards, Tom