Gerty the Gremlin

So, I’m working on painting and restoring my 1940 Pontiac Deluxe 6. I’m in the process of removing the front fenders when I noticed that the fenders have a cutout for the 1939 style headlights but that has been roughly cut out and the 1940 style lights have been installed. was it a common thing for Pontiac or GM, to re-purpose parts from previous years like that?

I’ve determined that the cooling issue is within the gauge. I’ve checked the entire motor with a digital thermometer and all is running cool and consistent. I just have to figure out where the issue is with the electrical part of the temp gauge

So, first I did the hard part first and flushed the entire cooling system and got some minor rust out of it. After that I filled with water to confirm that the issue is still there or gone. I used my thermal gun to check the motor all over and the temps are very close to one another at around 170-180. With that being said JUST around the temp sensor it is warm around 200. I’m probably gonna flush it one more time and check my wiring to make sure the gauge still has a good ground.

So, the other day I was driving my 40 Pontiac with the straight 6 in it, when I lost the belt and didn’t realize it until the temp gauge was pegged at 220. I immediately stopped and check the motor. I could hear the coolant boiling and there was an excess of blow by. I put the belt back on and still let it sit for a while until the boiling stopped. I started the car and all of the symptoms went away except…. The motor usually averaged a temperature of 180-185 but it was running at 200 since. I decided to change the oil, and replace the thermostat cause I really didn’t know how hot it got. well, today I changed the oil and replaced the thermostat with a new 180 degree one. Now, when I start the car it immediately begins to overheat, even at an idle. Any thoughts?

Finally got it all assembled and took her for a test drive. WOW is all I can say! I never knew how smooth these cars can ride when everything is working as it should. Thank you to everybody that threw out ideas and advice to figure out my problem. It’s a great feeling knowing there are still good people out there that just want to help. walter

I think I have found the cause of the vibration in the driveline. While I had the transmission out I decided to do some preventative maintenance on things. The first thing I did was pull the U joints to inspect and grease…..boy am I glad I did!! Both U joints were beyond shot. I’ve ordered new ones and am waiting on them to arrive.

Gentlemen, well I’ve pulled the transmission and have a question. The throw out is a bushing not a bearing. Should the carbon disk rotate in the cast housing? It has a grease fitting which to me implies that it should. Mine does not move at all, and will barely take grease.

1: the vibration will increase and decrease depending on speed. 2: sitting stationary with the engine running there is a slight vibration that goes away when the clutch is pushed in. 3: have not tried that, I will on my next drive 4: the vibration is constant until I let the clutch back out. It seems as though the vibration goes away when the clutch is just starting to engage but the vibration will some times come back at full release of the clutch. 5: I have not lifted the car but I did check the UV joints and did not notice any slack. I will lift the car and check again.

I haven’t dropped the trans yet, I’m trying to do as much research as possible before I start taking things apart. I’ve learned my lesson in the past about taking things apart when parts seem to be difficult to find.

First post here. I recently purchased a 1940 Pontiac Deluxe 26. The car is in fantastic shape with no rust and she is a great runner. My issue is this, while driving I get a decent vibration in the car, but while cruising if I push in the clutch, let the engine idol down and gently let the clutch back out the vibration goes away. I’m guessing that I need a new clutch disk and pressure plate, but I have been wrong before. What are your thoughts and what clutch disc is in this car? I have scoured the internet but have come up short. Thanks again for your help!!