A Comprehensive Index to Service Bulletins
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IntroductionAs a supplement to the shop manual and parts book, Packard communicated updates and corrections to its servicing dealer body, primarily, through two publications: the Service Counselor (SC), a newsletter that was issued, essentially, on a monthly basis, and Service Technical Bulletins (STB), single-topic letters that were issued on an as-needed basis. While annual indices were traditionally supplied by the factory for this material, styles varied substantially, and none were issued for the 1956 calendar year -- even though information continued to be published for several months after the end of Detroit production. Yet, the story didn't end there, as Studebaker's South Bend offices and remaining dealer network assumed service responsibilities for Packard vehicles. Articles on Packard equipment continued to be published in the Studebaker Service Bulletin (SSB) through 1961, but Studebaker provided no index information after July 1958. Although I had been aware of some two dozen references to Packards in Studebaker bulletins, it wasn't until the Spring of 2005 that I was finally able to track them all down from a pair of indices published by Studebaker and one compiled, years later, for 1958 through 1962 -- thanks to Mr. Richard Quinn, a highly-regarded historian and collector in Studebaker circles.
Three Sources - One VisionWhether you are repairing, restoring, improving, or hot-rodding your Packard, these publications contain a wealth of good information that can't be found in any other manual. However, sorting through all this material for answers can be like looking for a needle in a haystack. To better reference this original material, I set out to prepare this single, master index to all three publications and for all years, blending their respective styles. Each topic has been edited to improve clarity, yet permit recognition of the title in the original document. While the model application information was drawn from the original text, it has been edited for uniformity, using a convention similar to that of the factory shop manual and parts book. As such, articles listed for 55th (or earlier) Series models should be reviewed, on a case-by-case basis, for relevance to their 56th counterparts. A similar caveat applies to 5670 (Executive) models, relative to equipment shared with 5660 (Clipper) and 5680 (Packard) models. I also reorganized the topics by subject headings that more closely follow the service manual layout, which are hot-linked to the online index that follows: |
Disclosures & DisclaimersThis work, though derived from a variety of sources, is copyrighted, but a sublicense is hereby granted to The Packard V8 Club for display on their website and the personal use of visitors to that site. However, any other unauthorized use is expressly prohibited and may be subject to prosecution. Also, because this index was compiled from documents published by the factory, neither the author nor The Packard V8 Club are responsible for errors in content arising from source information. |
55th-56th Series Service Bulletin Index |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Service Kit hum/vibration |
55th | STB 55T-45, Dealer 36 |
| Evaporator Case Water Leaks right turns - modifications |
55th-56th | STB 56T-21, Dealer 18 |
| Plenum Chamber Carpet additional part for dealer installation |
56th | SC Vol. 29, No. 12, p. 66 |
| Servicing Compressors individual parts, not assemblies |
55th-56th | STB 56T-16, Dealer 13 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Antenna: | -- | -- |
| - Electric front fender - drive assembly replacement |
55th-56th | SSB No. 319, p. 7 |
| - Servicing the Packard (electric) service parts detail |
55th-56th-57th | SSB No. 328, p. 5 |
| - Servicing Packard (electric) 55th-56th dome nut and insulator |
55th-56th-57th | SSB No. 330, p. 4 |
| Fresh Air Heater Core service part number |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 9, p. 36 |
| Heater Hose Kinked insufficient heat - reroute |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 4, p. 25 |
| Radio Bonding Clips electrical interference - installation |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 7, p. 38 |
| Windshield Washer Cover & Pump Assembly service part |
55th-56th | SSB No. 322, p. 3 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Easamatic Power Brakes - Hard Pedal new type vacuum piston - conversion kit |
55th | STB 55T-28 (Zones only) |
| Rear Brake Wear premature - new brake drum |
5640-60-70 | SSB No. 344, p. 4 |
| Rear Brake Wear, Premature - Overheating hand brake adjustment |
5640-60 | STB 56T-22, Dealer 19 |
| Rear Brakes premature wear/grab - new wheel cylinders |
5640-60 | STB 56T-24 (Zones only) |
| Power Brake Vacuum Check Valve hard pedal - new type with stop washer |
All Models | SC Vol. 30, No. 2, p. 7 |
| Stop Light Switch - Torsion Level Suspension removal - socket size |
55th-56th | SSB No. 328, p. 5 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| (none issued) | -- | -- |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Sleeve, Shaft Levers-to-Transmission Extension Lever Rod superseded part |
55th-56th | SSB No., 360, p. 7 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Accelerator Linkage, Adjusting throttle linkage - shift point |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 5, p. 18 |
| Band Adjustments clarification of STB 56T-6 |
56th | STB 56T-11 (Zones only) |
| Bell Housing Oil Seal leaks - superseded part, use of prelube |
56th | SSB No. 351, p. 4 |
| Breather oil loss - check fluid level, relocate |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 9, p. 34 |
| Buzzing Noise in Reverse pump check valve binding - rework |
Twin Ultramatic | SC Vol. 28 No. 12, p. 70 |
| Changes in... (Confidential) production - with part, effective date/unit |
55th | STB 55T-11 (Zones only) |
| Changes in... production - with part, effective date/unit |
55th | STB 55T-22 (Zones only) |
| Changes in... (Confidential) production - with part, effective date/unit |
56th | STB 56T-6 (Zones only) |
| Control Changes to Improve Shift Pattern update to 56th Series - new valving kits |
54th-55th | SC Vol. 30, No. 8, p. 29 |
| Control Valve Assemblies, Complete identification - not interchangeable |
55th-56th | SSB No. 358, p. 6 |
| Converter: | -- | -- |
| - Fluid Leaks damaged washers - use of sealant |
23rd-56th | SSB No. 350, p. 1 |
| - Pump Shaft - Oil Pump Rotor Splines - Worn or Stripped new 40-spline service parts |
54th-55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 3, p. 10 |
| - Pump Shaft - Oil Pump Rotor Splines - Worn or Stripped - Correction new 40-spline service parts |
54th-55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 5, p. 17 |
| - Pump Shaft and Oil Pump Rotor worn/stripped splines - corrections, superseded parts) |
54th-55th-56th | SSB No. 331, p. 4 |
| - Pump Shaft - Oil Pump Rotor Splines - see also: | -- | "Front Oil Pump" |
| - Reaction Clutch Sprags premature failure - replace in sets |
54th-55th-56th | SSB No. 348, p. 3 |
| - Reaction Clutch Sprags replacement - use of reaction clutch assembly |
54th-55th-56th | SSB No. 358, p. 7 |
| - Reactor End Play new measuring method and special tool |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 3, p. 21 |
| - Reactor End Play revisions to checking method and special tool |
56th | STB 55T-52, Dealer 43 |
| - Torque (Reactor End Play) return to prior design and checking method - converter assembly superseded |
56th | SSB No. 331, p. 6 |
| - Torque (Reactor End Play) cancellation of wave washer kit |
56th | SSB No. 339, p. 4 |
| Direct Drive Clutch: | -- | -- |
| - Slippage - Gear Start slipping due to oil - removal of chamfers (reference for SC Vol. 29, No. 9, p. 45) |
54th | SC Vol. 28 No. 10, p. 58 |
| - Engagement slipping and shift points |
55th | STB 55T-7, Dealer 6 |
| - Engagement shift valve piston and spring |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 2, p. 18 |
| - Engagement slipping - new high speed governor spring |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 9, p. 45 |
| - Engagement, Loss of input/crankshaft end play, bushing position, restricted fluid passages - modifications |
55th | SSB No. 320, p. 4 |
| - Piston Ring Installation, Converter improper/slow engagement - check ring gap |
55th-56th | SSB No. 358, p. 6 |
| Direct Shift Valve Piston Spring Seat clutch engagement point, valve body leaks - correct installation |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 5, p. 30 |
| Direct Shift Valve Piston Springs interchangeable parts |
55th | STB 55T-43, Dealer 34 |
| Engine Runaway low range brake spring changes |
54th-55th | STB 56T-2, Dealer 1 |
| Engine Runaway new valve body separator plate, low range brake spring changes |
56th | STB 56T-7, Dealer 5 |
| Engine Runaway - Flare - Low Brake Information premature failure of high range clutch - summary of checks and corrections |
54th-55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 7, p. 25 |
| Engine Runaway - Low to High Shifts high range clutch piston oil passages restricted - modification |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 40 |
| Engine Runaway - Low to High Shifts low throttle pressure - install extension kit |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 9, p. 45 |
| Engine Runaway - Low to High Shifts low throttle pressure - install extension kit |
55th | STB 55T-32, Dealer 23 |
| Engine Runaway/Flare - see also: | -- | "Front Oil Pump" "High Range Clutch" "Low Range Brake" "Push Button Control" "Throttle/Control Linkage" |
| Filler Tube Length (and dipstick) shorter - not interchangeable |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 3, p. 19 |
| Fluid Temperature Affects Ultramatic Upshift loss of pressure, bushing wear - pressure tests |
55th-56th | SSB No. 339, p. 5 |
| Fluid, Transmission proper type |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 41 |
| Fluid, Transmission - Correction proper type |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 10, p. 54 |
| Front Oil Pump and Converter Shaft Kits new parts |
54th-55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 8, p. 32 |
| Front Oil Pump Oil Passage Restriction Test engine runaway/flare, premature high range clutch failures - diagnosis |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 6, p. 21 |
| Front Oil Pump - see also: | -- | "Converter Pump Shaft" |
| Gearshift Indicator Pointer misalignment - new clamp |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 7, p. 37 |
| High Range Clutch: | -- | -- |
| - Burning high range clutch spring and piston |
55th-56th | SSB No. 327, p. 8 |
| - Burning spring data correction |
55th-56th | SSB No. 338, p. 3 |
| - Driving Plate new heavy-duty type - installation procedure |
55th-56th | SSB No. 344, p. 2 |
| - (failures) operating precautions |
All Ultramatic | SC Vol. 30, No. 4, p. 16 |
| - Housing Identification differentiation - check end play as installed |
55th-56th | SSB No. 346, p. 4 |
| - Housing, Part Nos. 458950 and 6484046 damaged seal, insufficient chamfer - return for exchange | 55th-56th | SSB No. 346, p. 4 |
| - Housing - Part Nos. 458950 and 6484046 clearance checks - grind welds |
55th-56th | SSB No. 359, p. 6 |
| - Problems load pick up and slippage - checks, adjustments, and service precautions |
55th-56th | SSB No. 320, p. 5 |
| Hydraulic Tests preliminary service information |
Twin Ultramatic | SC Vol. 28 No. 11, p. 62 |
| Leaks - see also: | -- | "Bell Housing Oil Seal" "Breather" "Converter" "Oil Loss" |
| Low Range Brake: | -- | -- |
| - Cap distorted - designed shape |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 5, p. 20 |
| - Functions Improperly distorted cap |
55th | STB 55T-17, Dealer 15 |
| - Functions Improperly distorted cap |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 9, p. 45 |
| - Information harsh, noisy, runaway/flare - correct springs, new separator plate |
56th | STB 56T-18, Dealer 15 |
| Low Regulator Valve kickdown runaway - oil passage change |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 7, p. 38 |
| Low Speed Disturbance direct drive - alter shift point |
54th-55th | SC Vol. 30, No. 2, p. 5 |
| Manual Valve Control Lever Inner Stop superseded part - modified installation |
55th | SSB No. 324, p. 5 |
| Oil Cooler leaks - internal modifications, same number |
55th-56th | SSB No. 322, p. 4 |
| Oil Loss breather relocation |
55th-56th | SSB No. 319, p. 5 |
| Oil Loss at Breather level, restrictions, overheating - relocation |
23rd-56th | SSB No. 339, p. 3 |
| Park, Locking in pawl and gear clearance - loose, worn, damaged parts |
54th-55th-56th | SSB No. 340, p. 4 |
| Parking Lock Sticking manual valve - new parking gear |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 7, p. 36 |
| Parking Lock Sticking new transmission rod and lever |
55th | SC Vol. 30, No. 1, p. 4 |
| Push Button Control: | -- | -- |
| - Actuator Shaft (set) Screw accessibility - new Allen head design |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 7, p. 27 |
| - (actuator-to-manual shaft set screw) superseded part |
56th | SSB No. 350, p. 8 |
| - Adjusting Actuator-to-Transmission Control Valve Detent loss/delay of high range - special procedure |
56th | SSB No. 338, p. 3 |
| - Armature Test special methods |
56th | STB 56T-26, Dealer 20 |
| - Bent Actuator Fingers overtravel - straightening |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 3, p. 12 |
| - Circuit Breaker superseded part - modification |
56th | SSB No. 351, p. 3 |
| - Inoperative overtravel, finger damage - rework contact segment |
56th | SSB No. 322, p. 4 |
| - Left-Side Conversion driver accessibility issues |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 6, p. 23 |
| - Light Leak at control buttons - felt mask |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 1, p. 3 |
| - (malfunctions) checks, adjustments, and precautions |
56th | SSB No. 327, p. 6 |
| - Push Button Type Control preliminary information/service |
56th | SC Vol. 29, No. 11, p. 55 |
| - Pressure Switch water leak/shorts - relocation |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 2, p. 8 |
| - Relay Water Trough water leak/shorts |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 1, p. 3 |
| - Removal of Control Relay redundant part |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 1, p. 2 |
| - Removal of Automatic Park Relay pawl damage |
56th | STB 56T-25 (Zones only) |
| - Retaining Clip (Switch Actuator) new service part |
56th | SSB No. 324, p. 4 |
| - Supplement Automatic Park Relay added |
56th | SC Vol. 29, No. 12, p. 62 |
| - Towing Instructions precautions |
56th | STB 55T-46, Dealer 37 |
| - Towing, Road Testing and precautions |
56th | STB 56T-4, Dealer 3 |
| - Vent actuator - condensation and oil |
56th | SSB No. 322, p. 4 |
| - Water in Actuator leaks at wires |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 6, p. 22 |
| Pressure Test Plug, (Front) Pump production change - fabricate test adapter |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 3, p. 20 |
| Rattle (converter) loose direct drive pressure plate screws - replace and/or retorque |
Twin Ultramatic | STB 55T-40, Dealer 31 |
| Rear Oil Pump Rotor Sets cost savings - new kits |
54th-55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 3, p. 11 |
| Rear Oil Pump Driver premature wear - hardened |
54th-55th-56th | STB 55T-47, Dealer 38 |
| Rear Oil Pump Driver premature wear - redesigned |
54th-55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 1, p. 4 |
| Rear Oil Pump Driver premature wear - redesigned |
54th-55th-56th | STB 56T-9, Dealer 7 |
| Selector Lever Stops no stops - wrong lever |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 29, No. 12, p. 66 |
| Service Bushings parts available for service |
All Models | SC Vol. 28 No. 12, p. 70 |
| Service Bushings and Bearings parts list |
23rd-56th | SSB No. 355, p. 6 |
| Service Bushing Tools description and illustration of use |
All Models | SC Vol. 28 No. 12, p. 65 |
| Service Transmissions - Stripped shipped less bell housing |
54th-55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 7, p. 37 |
| Shift Pattern operating information |
55th | STB 55T-6, Dealer 5 |
| Shift Pattern, Earlier upshift modification |
5640-60 | SC Vol. 30, No. 7, p. 27 |
| Throttle Control Rod bent - length data |
24th-55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 4, p. 26 |
| Throttle Control Rod Adjustment bent - rod length data |
24th-55th | SSB No. 340, p. 7 |
| Throttle Control Rod Adjustment supplemental rod length data |
56th | SSB No. 344, p. 4 |
| Throttle Control Shaft Lever Extension Kit, Carburetor unwanted kickdown - revised geometry |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 7, p. 36 |
| Throttle Control Shaft Lever Extension, Carburetor application extended to early 56th |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 29, No. 12, p. 65 |
| Throttle Linkage, Adjusting (Accelerator) shift point |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 5, p. 18 |
| Throttle Linkage Adjustment Training Book correction |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 6, p. 34 |
| Throttle Linkage Adjustment (Caribbean Carburetors) new model information |
5588 | SC Vol. 29, No. 6, p. 32 |
| Throttle Linkage Adjustments supplement - corrections/variations |
54th-55th-56th | SSB No. 340, p. 7 |
| Torque Specification Change universal joint flange bolt |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 41 |
| Torque-Tightening Controls stuck valves - fluid/pressure leaks |
All Ultramatic | SC Vol. 30, No. 9, p. 35 |
| Torquing Valve Body Bolts erratic pressure readings |
Twin Ultramatic | SC Vol. 29, No. 4, p. 24 |
| Transmission - Caribbean replacement - important differences |
5588 | SC Vol. 29, No. 9, p. 45 |
| Transmission Replacement - Caribbean important differences |
5588 | STB 55T-20, Dealer 17 |
| Universal Joint Flange Bolt click, loosening - new type |
54th-55th | STB 55T-4, Dealer 4 |
| Universal Joint Flange Bolt click, loosening - new type |
54th-55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 9, p. 46 |
| Valve Springs and Spacer - Caribbean production change - new type |
5588 | STB 55T-26 (Zones only) |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Auto-Lite Generators production substitution - identification |
56th | SC Vol. 29, No. 12, p. 65 |
| Battery, 12 Volt Characteristics new model information |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 9, p. 44 |
| Battery, 12 Volt Characteristics new model information |
55th | STB 55T-3, Dealer 3 |
| Battery - Negative Terminal Grounded polarizing generator |
56th | STB 55T-49, Dealer 40 |
| Batteries, Storage OE availability - alternate replacements |
55th | STB 55T-15, Dealer 13 |
| Directional Signal Switch not cancelling - sleeve position |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 3, p. 22 |
| Distributor Specifications Caribbean - revisions |
5688 | SC Vol. 30, No. 1, p. 4 |
| Distributor Vacuum Control Assembly Delco - superseded |
5560-80 | SSB No. 350, p. 8 |
| Electric Door Locks inoperative - disconnected wiring |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 6, p. 24 |
| Electric Window Lift Motor Kits superseded part, with modifications required |
55th-56th | SSB No. 356, p. 5 |
| Electric Window Lift Motor Kits incorrectly packaged |
55th-56th | SSB No. 359, p. 5 |
| Electric Window Shaft and Pinion loose - new, one-piece type |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 40 |
| Headlights, New Style Sealed Beam improved design |
All Models | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 42 |
| Horn Button Contact not closing - spacers added |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 42 |
| Horn Ring Contact Plate Retainer ring misaligned - new design |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 4, p. 16 |
| Ignition Cable Support Brackets - Caribbean cables chafed - relocation |
5588 | STB 55T-25 (Zones only) |
| Ignition Cable Support Brackets cross-firing - new-type and wires |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 3, p. 9 |
| Ignition Resistors burned points, misfiring - identification |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 2, p. 6 |
| Ignition Timing production change |
5680-88 | SC Vol. 29, No. 12, p. 65 |
| Ignition Timing, Incorrect excessive vacuum - inspection and adjustment |
5540 | STB 55T-39, Dealer 30 |
| Power Seat Actuator Pin Tool fabrication and use |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 2, p. 8 |
| Rear Cigar Lighters incorrect bases - replacement |
5582-87 | STB 55T-14, Dealer 12 |
| Service Manual - Electrical Section (Correction) polarizing generator |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 10, p. 54 |
| Spark Plug Failures fouling - diagnosis |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 6, p. 22 |
| Spark Plug Fouling cold - hotter plug available |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 41 |
| Spark Plugs superseded part |
55th-56th | SSB No. 355, p. 1 |
| Starter Motor Pinion Adjustment excessive wear - correct procedure |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 7, p. 27 |
| Starter Solenoids, Delco water leaks - sealing |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 4, p. 15 |
| Tail Light Cable and Sockets service parts for harness |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 8, p. 32 |
| Trunk Compartment Light staying on - adjustment |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 4, p. 16 |
| Wiring Diagrams new model information |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 1, p. 10A |
| Wiring Diagrams new model information |
56th | SC Vol. 29, No. 13, p. 11 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Chrome Piston Rings excessive oil consumption - incorrect installation |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 2, p. 7 |
| Combustion Test With Dual Exhaust preferred pickup connection point |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 3, p. 22 |
| Crankshaft Front Oil Seals leaking - new type |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 3, p. 12 |
| Crankshaft Identification balance/usage |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 5, p. 30 |
| Crankshaft Identification correction |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 41 |
| Crankshafts, Replacement superseded part - drop-forged |
5560-80; 56th | SSB No. 350, p. 7 |
| Cylinder and Piston Assembly installation with standard transmission |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 42 |
| Cylinder Head Oil Passage noisy rockers levers - restricted |
55th | STB 55T-5 (Zones only) |
| Cylinder Heads, Cast Dome production change - new specifications and adjustments and identification |
5540 | SC Vol. 29, No. 7, p. 35 |
| Detonation insufficient octane - production change, Delco distributor conversion kits |
56th | STB 56T-14, Dealer 11 |
| Detonation Auto-Lite distributor conversion kits |
5640-60-70 | STB 56T-19, Dealer 16 |
| Detonation - Supplement revised distributor mainshaft assembly |
5680 | STB 56T-17, Dealer 14 |
| Engine and Parts 1955 stripped engine sale - will fit 1956 |
22nd-56th | SSB No. 350, p. 6 |
| Engine Numbers Utica number location |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 5, p. 29 |
| Hydraulic Valve Lifter Checking Tool new type or modify and update |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 2, p. 6 |
| Hydraulic Tappet Leak-Down noise after cold start - redesigned |
55th | STB 55T-29 (Zones only) |
| Hydraulic Tappet Noise checks and corrections |
55th | SC Vol. 30, No. 1, p. 3 |
| Hydraulic Tappets - General Information noise - checks and corrections |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 8, p. 31 |
| Hydraulic Tappets - Noisy at idle, 40-50MPH, hot - sticking relief valve |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 3, p. 11 |
| Hydraulic Valve Lifters superseded part |
55th-56th | SSB No. 344, p. 2 |
| Ignition Timing production change |
5680-88 | SC Vol. 29, No. 12, p. 65 |
| Ignition Timing, Incorrect excessive vacuum - inspection and adjustment |
5540 | STB 55T-39, Dealer 30 |
| Oil Consumption excessive - rocker levers shafts, intake oil deflectors, and piston rings |
55th | STB 55T-19, Dealer 16 |
| Oil Consumption - see also: | -- | "Chrome Piston Rings" "Rocker Lever Shaft Holes" "Valve Spring Baffles" |
| Oil Drain Plug Gasket new nylon type |
All Models | SC Vol. 30, No. 1, p. 4 |
| Oil Filler Tube Baffle oil splash - redesigned tube |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 7, p. 38 |
| Oil Pump Relief Valve Tube Kit for Correction of Hydraulic Valve Tappet Letdown intermittent at idle, 40-60MPH, hot - relief valve, sump tube, pressure leaks/checks, new cam thrust plate/spacer |
55th-56th | STB 56T-20, Dealer 17 |
| Piston Pin Lock groove and wire size change |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 40 |
| Piston Pin Locks supplemental usage |
56th | SC Vol. 29, No. 12, p. 65 |
| Rear Main Bearing Oil Leaks notching for drainage |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 4, p. 26 |
| Rocker Lever Identification right vs. left hand |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 5, p. 28 |
| Rocker Lever Shaft Holes - Oil Control oil consumption - holes eliminated |
55th | STB 55T-16, Dealer 14 |
| Rocker Lever Shaft Holes - New Shafts noisy - holes reinstated, smaller |
55th | STB 55T-35, Dealer 26 |
| Rough Engines reporting balancing numbers |
55th | STB 55T-23 (Zones only) |
| Runaway/Flare - see: | -- | "Twin Ultramatic" |
| Service Engine identification - wrong colors |
55th | STB 55T-33, Dealer 24 |
| Service Bulletin Correction see SSB No. 350, p. 6 - 352-cid part number |
22nd-56th | SSB No. 351, p. 3 |
| Service Manual Corrections - Engine Section bore/stroke specifications |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 41 |
| Stall On Left Turns internal leak - vacuum passage bushing |
5660 | SC Vol. 30, No. 9, p. 36 |
| Valve Spring Baffles oil consumption - new part |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 1, p. 1 |
| Valve Spring Baffles (Part Number - Correction) rocker shaft bolt lockwasher |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 5, p. 20 |
| Valve Spring Retainers spring seats - new harder type |
55th-56th | SSB No. 325, p. 1 |
| Valve Spring Seat, Intake retainer - new harder type |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 7, p. 26 |
| Valve Spring Tool description and use |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 5, p. 28 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Headlamp Door Wind Whistle diagnosis - repair |
5640-60 | STB 55T-54, Dealer 45 |
| Radiator Grille Emblem Base superseded part |
5540-60 | SC Vol. 30, No. 9, p. 36 |
| Radiator Grille Noise whistling - baffles |
5640-60 | STB 56T-5, Dealer 4 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Reinforcement and Modifications to Handle Trailers towing - hitches and lifts |
55th | STB 55T-27, Dealer 20 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Air Cleaner Gasket, Carburetor - Carter WCFB 2232S correct installation |
5540 | SC Vol. 29, No. 4, p. 24 |
| Air Cleaner, AC incorrect stud - missing wing nut |
5540 | SC Vol. 29, No. 9, p. 46 |
| Air Cleaner, AC incorrect stud - missing wing nut |
5540 | STB 55T-24, Dealer 19 |
| Carburetor, Carter 4-Barrel - Rough Idle secondary return spring tension |
5660 | SC Vol. 29, No. 12, p. 65 |
| Carburetors (description and servicing): | -- | -- |
| - Caribbean (twin Rochester 4GC) | 5588 | SC Vol. 29, No. 6, p. 32 |
| - Carter WCFB 2232S | 5540 | SC Vol. 29, No. 2, p. 11 |
| - Carter WCFB 2394S | 5660 | SC Vol. 29, No. 10, p. 47 |
| - Carter WGD 2393S | 5640 | SC Vol. 29, No. 10, p. 51 |
| - Rochester 4GC | 5560-80 | SC Vol. 29, No. 2, p. 15 |
| - Rochester 4GC | 5680 | SC Vol. 29, No. 10, p. 54 |
| Carburetor Metering Rods - Jets - Repair Kits part numbers |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 39 |
| Carburetor Metering Rods - Jets - Repair Kits part numbers |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 8, p. 31 |
| Carburetor Primary Venturi Brass Rings, Rochester loose, falling into intake - campaign |
5697-99 | STB 56T-23 (Zones only) |
| Carburetor Tools: | -- | -- |
| - Additions | 56th | SC Vol. 29, No. 12, p. 66 |
| - Carter WCFB 2232S | 5540 | SC Vol. 29, No. 3, p. 20 |
| - Idle Mixture Adjusting Tool | 5588 | SC Vol. 29, No. 6, p. 33 |
| - Rochester 4GC | 5560-80 | SC Vol. 29, No. 3, p. 20 |
| Flat Spot or Hesitation - Rochester pump plunger deformed |
5560-80 | SC Vol. 29, No. 3, p. 21 |
| Gasoline Fumes (Rochester) deceleration, right turns - return for rework |
5560-80 | STB 55T-41, Dealer 32 |
| Gasoline Fumes, Rochester Carburetor supplement - new gasket, field modification |
5560-80 | SC Vol. 30, No. 2, p. 7 |
| Gasoline Fumes (Termination Rochester Carburetor Correction) new gasket, field modification |
5560-80 | STB 56T-15, Dealer 12 |
| Hesitation or Stumbling - Carter WGD-2393S revised pump plunger, jet/housing, and fast idle cam |
5640 | STB 56T-12, Dealer 9 |
| Ignition Timing, Incorrect excessive vacuum - inspection and adjustment |
5540 | STB 55T-39, Dealer 30 |
| Stall On Left Turns internal leak - vacuum passage bushing |
5660 | SC Vol. 30, No. 9, p. 36 |
| Throttle Linkage Ball Joints falling off - service damage |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 3, p. 12 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Gauges, Erratic instruments fuse |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 6, p. 34 |
| Windshield Wipers: | -- | -- |
| Dual Speed Wipers malfunction/hissing - hoses reversed |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 5, p. 30 |
| Wiper Arms servicing |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 4, p. 25 |
| Wiper Arms/Blades unsatisfactory wiping - redesigned |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 4, p. 15 |
| Wiper Arms/Blades - Correction part numbers |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 7, p. 27 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Radiator Inlet Hose Collapsing reinforcing spring missing - service part |
55th-56th | SSB No. 331, p. 6 |
| Radiator Inlet Hose Reinforcing Spring superseded part |
55th-56th | SSB No. 337, p. 6 |
| Water Pumps, Noisy growl - seal lubrication, use of rust inhibitor |
55th-56th | SSB No. 340, p. 2 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Filler Plug Interference, Twin Traction carrier/case - rework end |
56th | SSB No. 319, p. 6 |
| Gear Tooth Pattern noise - pinion adjustment |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 8, p. 30 |
| Holding Adapter special tool |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 2, p. 8 |
| Pinion Depth Setting supplemental procedure |
56th | SSB No. 330, p. 3 |
| Pinion Nut, Drive (Torque Specifications - Additions) supplemental information |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 8, p. 32 |
| Pinion Rear Bearing and Sleeve, Differential identification |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 9, p. 44 |
| Rear Wheel Hub Clicks - All Models axle shafts - correcting taper |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 9, p. 46 |
| Twin Traction Differential, Servicing operating characteristics, pinion adjustment, service replacement units |
56th | STB 56T-8, Dealer 6 |
| Twin Traction Safety Differential preliminary information |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 4, p. 13 |
| Vibration Period 58-62 M.P.H. driveline angle - shimming axle, alternate ratio |
5580; 5680 | STB 56T-10, Dealer 8 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Front Wheel Bearing Adjustment revised torquing procedure |
All Models | SC Vol. 30, No. 3, p. 11 |
| Front Wheel Bearing Adjustment (Correction) revised torquing procedure |
All Models | SC Vol. 30, No. 5, p. 20 |
| Front Wheel Bearing (Torque Specifications - Addition) revised torquing procedure |
55th | SC Vol. 30, No. 8, p. 32 |
| Hard Steering knuckle thrust bearing |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 4, p. 24 |
| Power Steering Cylinder Seal Kit, Bendix leaks - proper installation |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 8, p. 32 |
| Power Steering Pump Pressure Gauge Fittings special tools |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 6, p. 34 |
| Power Steering Pump Reservoir Cap improved type - same number |
55th-56th | SSB No. 319, p. 6 |
| Power Steering Pump Reservoir Dip Stick breaks loose, cap leaks - discontinued, cap redesigned |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 41 |
| Power Steering Pumps Bendix vs. Monroe - identification, do not interchange |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 4, p. 24 |
| Power Steering Recovery too slow - binding nylon spacer |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 2, p. 7 |
| Power Steering, Binding (Bendix) ball stud adjustment |
All Models | STB 55T-38, Dealer 29 |
| Rear Shock Grommet Spacer squeaking - excessive end play |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 5, p. 20 |
| Shock Absorber Bracket, Rear Axle Torque Arm superseded part |
55th | SSB No. 340, p. 4 |
| Shock Absorbers - Export bottoming - heavy-duty type available |
55th | STB 55T-42, Dealer 33 |
| Stabilizer Bushing Retainer Clip Installer, J-4654 service procedure clarified |
24th-56th | SC Vol. 25, No. 7 p. 25 |
| Steering Cross Bars and Sockets Assemblies interchangeable parts |
22nd-56th | SSB No. 348, p. 7 |
| Steering Flange - Except Push Button Control superseded part |
56th | SSB No. 355, p. 7 |
| Steering Knuckle Bearing Shims, Front Wheel superseded parts |
22nd-56th | SSB No. 348, p. 8 |
| Steering Knuckle Supports superseded parts |
22nd-56th | SSB No. 350, p. 7 |
| Support Arm Bushing Torque Specifications, Front - Additions inner, upper and lower |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 41 |
| Support Arm Pivot Pins and Bushings, Front rattles - revised part |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 7, p. 36 |
| Torque Specifications - Suspension Additions front support arm inner bushings, upper/lower |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 41 |
| Torsion-Level Suspension: | -- | -- |
| - Cautions delivery and service |
55th | STB 54T-19, Dealer 9 |
| - Control Switch compensator - external shorts |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 4, p. 14 |
| - Control Switch compensator superseded, jumper harness required |
55th | SC Vol. 30, No. 6, p. 22 |
| - Control Switch compensator superseded, jumper harness required |
55th | SSB No. 319, p. 6 |
| - Control Switch jumper harness - wire connections |
55th | SSB No. 324, p. 4 |
| - Erratic Action loose support arm inner bushing nuts - compensator nuts |
55th-56th | SSB No. 325, p. 5 |
| - Limit Switch and Compensator Motor overtravel, excessive current draw - diagnosis, new limit switch |
55th | STB 55T-2, Dealer 2 |
| - Limit Switch Wiring Guard stone damage - fabrication |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 2, p. 8 |
| - Load Arm Ball Stud and Seats snapping noise - new type |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 1, p. 4 |
| - Load Arm Snap noise - ball studs/seats redesigned, alternate unloading procedure |
55th | STB 55T-37, Dealer 28 |
| - Load Compensator Lever Identification uneven riding height, side-to-side - visual inspection |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 3, p. 22 |
| - Load Compensator parts identification and assembly |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 4, p. 23 |
| - Load Compensator - Service Procedure testing - raise/lower with jumper wire |
56th | SC Vol. 29, No. 12, p. 66 |
| - Load Compensator - Testing Procedures raise/lower with jumper wire |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 3, p. 21 |
| - Long Torsion Bars, 9-degree bottoming - re-indexed hexes |
5580; 5680-88 | STB 56T-1 (Zones only) |
| - Long Torsion Bars (9-degree) replacements in pairs - jounce bumper clearance |
55th-56th | SSB No. 320, p. 7 |
| - Manual Control Kit bottoming on approach - driver override |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 7, p. 28 |
| - Rear Load Arm Links unseated - retaining pin added |
55th | STB 55T-18 (Zones only) |
| - Solenoids inoperative - waterproofing |
56th | STB 55T-50, Dealer 41 |
| - Stop Light Switch removal - socket size |
55th-56th | SSB No. 328, p. 5 |
| - Switches Waterproofed shorts - replace and waterproof individual switches |
55th | STB 55T-36, Dealer 27 |
| - Uneven Riding Height side-to-side - diagnosis, replacement links |
55th | STB 55T-1, Dealer 1 |
| - Uneven Riding Height fore-to-aft - adjustment, dash switch wire no longer disconnected for shipping |
56th | STB 55T-53, Dealer 44 |
| - Wire Disconnected dash control switch - for shipping |
55th | STB 55T-13, Dealer 11 |
| - Worm Shaft Lock Ring motor turns, but not lowering - inspection and replacement |
55th | STB 55T-12, Dealer 10 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Rear Cross Bearing Bolt Lockwashers incorrectly installed |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 4, p. 26 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Wheel Disc Plugs debris in wheel covers - new part |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 9, p. 46 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Bumper Attachment, Universal special tool |
All Models | SC Vol. 30, No. 6, p. 24 |
| Bumper Impact Bar, Front - Lower superseded part |
55th | SC Vol. 30, No. 6, p. 24 |
| Bumper Support Arms, Rear superseded |
55th | SSB No. 319, p. 6 |
| Chrome Plate Protective Coating applied for shipping - safe removal |
55th | STB 55T-31, Dealer 22 |
| Door (and Window) Handle Retainer, Inside falling off - new type |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 4, p. 25 |
| Door Glass, Broken loose runway end |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 9, p. 36 |
| Door Lock Strikers Spacers misaligned - adjustment |
56th | STB 56T-3, Dealer 2 |
| Door (and Window) Handle Retainer, Inside falling off - revised part |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 5, p. 20 |
| Dust Leaks in Trunk Compartment new wider tail lamp body gasket |
5580 | SC Vol. 29, No. 7, p. 37 |
| Dust Leaks trunk compartment - locating |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 9, p. 46 |
| Instrument Panel Paint Schemes dealer installed A/C - color matching vents |
55th | STB 55T-21, Dealer 18 |
| Rear Fender Joint Moulding Cover- Painted now plain steel - do not strip |
5540-60 | SC Vol. 29, No. 3, p. 22 |
| Rear Window Outside Trim Plates rust/tarnish from buffing residue - clean up |
56th | STB 55T-51, Dealer 42 |
| Seat Back Falls Forward, Caribbean inertia - ball stud and spring added |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 5, p. 19 |
| Seat Cushions and Seat Backs, Front - Early Production 56th Series Caribbean too firm - lower density foam available |
5688 | STB 56T-13, Dealer 10 |
| Stained Headlining stitching bleed-through - new type insulation |
5540-60 | STB 55T-30, Dealer 21 |
| Stained Headlining supplement - alternate adhesive |
5540-60 | STB 55T-44, Dealer 35 |
| Tail Lamp Lens Distortion heat lamp abuse |
All Models | SC Vol. 30, No. 9, p. 34 |
| Trunk Lid Lock new model - servicing |
5680 | SC Vol. 29, No. 12, p. 61 |
| Trunk Lock latch - superseded part |
56th | SSB No. 350, p. 8 |
| Trunk Lock Plate unlatching - new part, adjustment |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 4, p. 15 |
| Weatherstrip, Door Roof Rail - Hard-Tops water leaks, wind noise - supplemental part |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 9, p. 33 |
| Weatherstrip, Hinge Type (door roof rail) service springs/striker - 55th assemblies superseded |
55th-56th | SSB No. 331, p. 6 |
| Weatherstrip, Windshield Pillar Post new type |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 40 |
| Window Regulator Assembly electric - with arm and bracket |
55th-56th | SSB No. 320, p. 7 |
| Window Regulator Assembly electric - group number correction |
5522-5622 | SSB No. 322, p. 3 |
| Windshield Glass Squeaks creeps out of weatherstrip - use of sealant |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 42 |
| Windshield Moulding Upper Cover Joint broken stud - new type, same number |
56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 4, p. 16 |
| Windshield Weatherstrip and Moulding Retainers glass drops out at top - install lower retainers |
55th | STB 55T-10, Dealer 9 |
| Windshield Weatherstrip Retainer glass drops out at top with revised weatherstrip - alternate lower retainers |
55th | STB 55T-34, Dealer 25 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Lubrication Charts new model information |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 1, p. 9 |
| Lubrication Charts new model information |
56th | SC Vol. 29, No. 13, p. 9 |
| Transmission Fluid Ultramatic - proper type |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 41 |
| Transmission Fluid - Correction Ultramatic - proper type |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 10, p. 54 |
| Subject | Models | Reference |
| Caribbean Carburetors supplemental information |
5588 | SC Vol. 29, No. 6, p. 32 |
| Distributor Specifications Caribbean - revisions |
5688 | SC Vol. 30, No. 1, p. 4 |
| Front Wheel Bearing Adjustment revised torquing procedure |
All Models | SC Vol. 30, No. 3, p. 11 |
| Front Wheel Bearing Adjustment (Correction) revised torquing procedure |
All Models | SC Vol. 30, No. 5, p. 20 |
| Ignition Timing production change |
5680-88 | SC Vol. 29, No. 12, p. 65 |
| Mechanical Specifications and Adjustments new model information |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 1, p. 1 |
| Mechanical Specifications and Adjustments new model information |
56th | SC Vol. 29, No. 13, p. 1 |
| Mechanical Specification Changes (Cast Dome Cylinder Heads) distributor, carburetor, spark plugs |
5540 | SC Vol. 29, No. 7, p. 35 |
| Torque Specification Change (Twin Ultramatic) universal joint flange bolt |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 41 |
| Torque Specifications new model information |
55th | STB 55T-8, Dealer 7 |
| Torque Specifications - Additions front support arm inner bushings, upper/lower |
55th | SC Vol. 29, No. 8, p. 41 |
| Torque Specifications - Additions front wheel bearing and 56th rear axle pinion |
55th-56th | SC Vol. 30, No. 8, p. 32 |
Sources For Additional InformationWhile the price of single original copies of these publications makes it costly to obtain them all, reprints are available at affordable prices from independent sources.
![]() In 1982, all issues of the Service Counselor from 1951-56 were reprinted by one of the other Packard clubs, in volumes by calendar year, but with all issues from 1955-56 bound as a single volume. Additional volumes for previous years have been added in recent years, and a 1999 revision cataloged the 1956 articles in a new, extended index. However, unlike the original factory publications (where pages were typically numbered consecutively and effective with the first issue through the end of a given year/volume), the pages in the revision for 1955-56 have been completely renumbered, but starting with these new index pages, which are located at the front. Furthermore, all volume and issue number information has been eliminated from the front page of each edition. While some of those changes do aid in locating information within that particular version, the removal of original information runs counter to the reference information as cited in the index provided here. As such, you will need to access to document in their full original and unedited format. Thankfully, many original Service Counselors have been scanned and are now available online from The Packard Library -- an independent undertaking. Except for Vol. 30, No. 9, all issues from 1955-56 are now available on their Service Letters / Counselors page.
![]() Reprints of the Service Technical Bulletins for 1955-56 are available as a single set and priced at $40.00 (USD) from:
John F. Shireman Please add $5.00 (USD) for postage and handling. Payment accepted via United States Postal Money Order only. Reprints for previous years may also be available; contact Mr. Shireman for details. However, know that there are fifteen STBs in the subject time frame that were never intended for the eyes of any Packard dealer, but sent only to the two dozen (or so) Zone Offices across the country -- for discreet handling by field service managers and representatives |
| 55T-5 | 55T-11 | 55T-18 | 55T-22 | 55T-23 |
| 55T-25 | 55T-26 | 55T-28 | 55T-29 | 56T-1 |
| 56T-6 | 56T-11 | 56T-23 | 56T-24 | 56T-25 |
| While these "Zone only" issues are referenced in this index, they are NOT included in the above offerings and are very hard to come by.
![]() Reprints of Studebaker Service Bulletins are available from:
Richard Quinn Contact Mr. Quinn directly for pricing of reprints of the specific articles and payment details, but because this is a time consuming proposition, you should expect to pay a fair price for his time as well as materials and shipping.
ExceptionsLast but not least, I took the liberty of omitting some articles from this index that were published in 1955-56, but involve previous series and/or have no relevance to servicing 55th-56th Series. However, I added several relevant topics that were published prior to the start of the 1955 calendar year: |
| Subject | Reference |
| Buzzing Noise in Reverse - "Tips From The Editor" - Twin Ultramatic | SC Vol. 28 No. 12, p. 70 |
| Direct Drive Clutch Slippage - Gear Start Ultramatic Transmissions | SC Vol. 28 No. 10, p. 58 |
| Hydraulic Tests - Twin Ultramatic | SC Vol. 28 No. 11, p. 62 |
| Service Bushing Tools - All Ultramatic | SC Vol. 28 No. 12, p. 65 |
| Service Bushings - All Ultramatic | SC Vol. 28 No. 12, p. 70 |
| Stabilizer Bushing Retainer Clip Installer, J-4654 | SC Vol. 25, No. 7 p. 25 |
| Torsion Level Suspension - Cautions - 55th Series | STB 54T-19, Dealer 9 |
| Most of these were included in this index simply because the 55th Series cars actually debuted late in the 1954 calendar year, but some topics involve technologies that carried over from previous Series. While these additional topics are NOT included in the reprint offerings cited above, it may be helpful for you to review this information, but I don't specifically recommend that anyone purchase sets of reprints for an entire previous year just to get these few.
EpilogueAlthough I've been collecting and reviewing bulletin information for decades, any time that I thought I might be finished, another piece of the puzzle always seemed to turn up. At some point, I may expand the scope of this index to include entries for other types of factory bulletins that have a bearing on service. As such, revisions to this online document may be forthcoming. So, don't forget to check back! Again, because this index was compiled from documents published by the factory, neither the author nor The Packard V8 Club are responsible for errors in content arising from source information, but you may direct questions and comments to the webmaster -- for forwarding and follow-up as time permits. |
|
Copyright © 2005-2006, Brian E. Harpst, All Rights Reserved
Revised -- March 26, 2006 |