Clutchless made us clueless

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Other then in most cases, we know just about everything on this particular photo. This thanks to a caption written on the back, quoting: “Packard 110, 19th series, model 1900, 6-cylinder, 100-horsepower, 122-inch wheelbase, 5-person deluxe convertible coupe (body type #1489DE), fitted with feather & fabric upholstery option. Special show car: doors removed so as to emphasize advantages of Packard's Electromatic Clutch”

That’s rather overwhelming isn’t it? But what exactly was this Electromatic Clutch, we wondered. This period ad tells a bit more. But we found the answer on a forum for Packard enthusiasts: “The Electromatic is a vacuum control for the clutch. It works the clutch but not the transmission. Unless in neutral, you do have to use the clutch manually once when starting the car. After you have vacuum, it will take over. Keep in mind, it does not like the so called speedshifting where one tries to do fast shifts under some acceleration. Packards were dignified cars after all.” 

It seems like a bit of a scary system to us, but apart from that the promotional shot makes a pretty Friday Lady, fit for today. Back to the clutchless system: do you have any experiences with it?

Words editor, pictures Packard Motor Company

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