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Looking for advice on 1940 LaSalle

Started by pcccoutlaw, September 29, 2015, 03:46:32 PM

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pcccoutlaw

Hello all,

I am new to this site, and new to owning these fine cars.  I recently acquired a 1940 LaSalle Model 52 convertible from my father and am having a couple issues that you folks can probably help me with. 

The first issue is it looks like the temp sending unit is not functioning, as the gauge never moves off the C when you drive.  I was told that if the gauge pegs out if the wire is grounded to the block, which it does, this indicates that the problem is the sender and not the gauge, so I need to replace it.  I am hoping that you can identify a good source for this. 

The second issue is probably harder to solve.  Dad had been having trouble getting the car started for over a year before I got it this spring, and the issue is continuing.  It is the original 6 volt, positive ground system, and there are two new Optima batteries installed, so turning over is not a problem-it will grind away for quite a while. It happens after the car has been sitting for a while (maybe 3-4 days), and it starts up again just fine after it once gets going.  With a shot of starter fluid in the carb it always takes right off and runs fine, but that is a hassle to do all the time, so I would like to figure out how to eliminate the reluctance to start after sitting for a while.  Last thing to add is that there has been an electric fuel pump installed in line, so delivery of fuel should not be an issue, or so you would think. 

Any help you guys can give me with all your knowledge and experience is greatly appreciated.  Thanks a lot!

Nate Simmons

pcccoutlawemail addresses not permitted

Steve Passmore

Quote from: pcccoutlaw on September 29, 2015, 03:46:32 PM
Hello all,


The second issue is probably harder to solve.  Dad had been having trouble getting the car started for over a year before I got it this spring, and the issue is continuing.  It is the original 6 volt, positive ground system, and there are two new Optima batteries installed, so turning over is not a problem-it will grind away for quite a while. It happens after the car has been sitting for a while (maybe 3-4 days), and it starts up again just fine after it once gets going.  With a shot of starter fluid in the carb it always takes right off and runs fine, but that is a hassle to do all the time, so I would like to figure out how to eliminate the reluctance to start after sitting for a while.  Last thing to add is that there has been an electric fuel pump installed in line, so delivery of fuel should not be an issue, or so you would think. 

Any help you guys can give me with all your knowledge and experience is greatly appreciated.  Thanks a lot!

Nate Simmons

pcccoutlawemail addresses not permitted

I had exactly the same problem with my 41, after standing more than a few days it would not start unless it had fuel poured down its throat then it was fine for a day or two.  Any longer than that and the same problem.  I had a good idea it was the accelerator pump within the carburetor and sure enough on inspection the leather pump was completely shot. after fitting a new one it fires right up every time even after standing a week or two.  A carb rebuild kit is the first thing to try.
Steve

Present
1937 60 convertible coupe
1941 62 convertible coupe
1941 62 coupe

Previous
1936 70 Sport coupe
1937 85 series V12 sedan
1938 60 coupe
1938 50 coupe
1939 60S
1940 62 coupe
1941 62 convertible coupe x2
1941 61 coupe
1941 61 sedan x2
1941 62 sedan x2
1947 62 sedan
1959 62 coupe

C.R. Patton II



Hello Nate

Glad to read about your LaSalle.  I concur with Steve to resolve your issues.  Very happy to learn that you plan to retain your 1940 LaSalle 5229 (75 manufactured).  Please post pictures of the car especially the body data plate.
All good men own a Cadillac but great gentlemen drive a LaSalle. That is the consequence of success.

pcccoutlaw

Thanks to CR and Steve for the responses, and I will definitely try that.  Since I have not yet had to buy anything for the car, I am still looking for guidance towards a couple outfits that are good to go to for parts-reliable, reputable, and hopefully not outrageously expensive. Obviously I will need to order a carb rebuild kit and also need that temp sending unit.  I am sure that some of you veteran owners out should be able to steer me in the right direction. 

Nate

Steve Passmore

Steve

Present
1937 60 convertible coupe
1941 62 convertible coupe
1941 62 coupe

Previous
1936 70 Sport coupe
1937 85 series V12 sedan
1938 60 coupe
1938 50 coupe
1939 60S
1940 62 coupe
1941 62 convertible coupe x2
1941 61 coupe
1941 61 sedan x2
1941 62 sedan x2
1947 62 sedan
1959 62 coupe

Tom Boehm

Hello Steve, 1940 Lasalles have a Carter carburetor. Cadillac Parts LTD. has a listing for a rebuild kit for a Carter WDO '39 and '40 Lasalle.

Steve Passmore

Yes, so sorry,  clicked on the wrong link. Heres the correct one if Nate's car still has the original carb?.

http://www.cadillacpartsltd.com/19lacarekitc1.html
Steve

Present
1937 60 convertible coupe
1941 62 convertible coupe
1941 62 coupe

Previous
1936 70 Sport coupe
1937 85 series V12 sedan
1938 60 coupe
1938 50 coupe
1939 60S
1940 62 coupe
1941 62 convertible coupe x2
1941 61 coupe
1941 61 sedan x2
1941 62 sedan x2
1947 62 sedan
1959 62 coupe