TIM BUCK II GARAGE

Reprinted from the 1999 Club News Volume 26 Number 1

Q: The backup light switches on ’55 and ’56 Powerflite transmissions do fail and replacements are non existent. What to do?

A: Try a Carquest Auto parts store. A SLS28 is a brake light switch that is 99% correct, but the terminals are both male (original are male and female) and the one wire end must be replaced with a female end. Works perfectly.

Q: The starter on my ’60 300F refuses to efficiently start the engine when the motor is warm. It has been rebuilt but still acts the same. Why?

A: When the oil-lite bushing is replaced on the nose of the starter, it should be reamed out by .015” to allow for heat expansion of the shaft, because the starter is in close proximity of the exhaust pipe and cross-over pipe on the ram cars, and a lot of heat is transferred.

Q: When I am stopped at a red light in my 300F with engine idling, smoke rises between the hood and the right fender. The engine is in good condition and runs well. Why does it “smoke?”

A: Non A/C cars had road draft tubes that emit those fumes when stopped. A/C cars have PCV systems that route fumes and smoke to the intake manifold balance tube. Cars that were ordered from California had the PCV system even if not A/C because of clean air act. Remove the balance tube and weld in a 5/16” steel tube, remove road draft tube and replace with a later model cap and valve and length of rubber fuel line hose. Smoke is gone!

Q: I have heard that a “new” 300M for 2001 was shown at a California auto show. Supposedly it was only for the show. Chrysler does not confirm or deny. Any substance to its production?

A: It IS being built. The engine now develops 300 hp, has 18” wheels, larger brakes, real wood interior and other refinements.

Q: I had both front driveshaft “joints” replaced but my car has a vibration at certain speeds. The driveshaft was balanced but I still have the vibration at about 60/65 MPH.

A: First, check engine mounts. If OK, then check trans insulator. Mainly, the trans mount seems to be the culprit. Remove the 2 bolts on either end of the insulator to cross member and slightly jack up the transmission. Check to see that both the top plate and bottom plate are firmly attached to the rubber core. If not, remove the insulator assembly, clean the plate or plates and degrease the rubber portion and remove all grease and rust from the plates. Use a 2 part epoxy and leave pressure on the assembly for at least 24 hours then reinstall. This may correct the vibration. If not, other areas need inspection.

Q: I have been trying to locate 15” wheels for my 300G. Junk yards tell me that Chrysler used 14” wheels in 1961. Did someone put later model wheels on my G?

A: Strange as it may seem, only the 300G in 1961 had 15” wheels. All other 61s had 14”. Wheels from 1962 through 1963 will be 15”. Also 1966 up with disc brakes will be 15”. Later models (’69 up) will have 15”. Centers are slightly different but can be used and must have 6-1/2” wide rims.