Hudson Year 1947, 1947 SUPER SIX, 1947 COMMODORE SIX, 1947 3/4-TON COMMERCIAL, 1947 SUPER EIGHT Owner's Manual
...
WHEN YOUR
NEW HUDSON
IDENTIFICATION CARD completely filled in on both
sides. BE SURE THAT KEY NUMBERS ARE
IS DELIVERED TO YOU
SEE THAT THESE THINGS ARE DONE
OWNER'S SERVICE POLICY properly filled in and
its provisions fully explained to you.
RECORDED.
BATTERY properly registered with National Battery
Dealer.
RADIO WARRANTY REGISTRATION CARD filled
in by dealer and attached to radio if car is so
equipped.
Welcome
As the purchaser of a new Hudson car we welcome
you into the fast growing family of Hudson owners.
This may be your first Hudson—or possibly you have
had previous experience with this fine product. In
either event you will have many pleasant reactions in
Naturally, you will want to keep it trouble free and
derive from it the many pleasures for which it was
pared this Owner's Manual. In its pages you will find
Before you drive your car take a few minutes to study
this manual. It contains a wealth of information--
just the things you will want to know. Then place
its ownership.
purchased. With this thought in mind we have pre-
many suggestions to fully acquaint you with its construction, operating features and maintenance requirements.
it in the locker box for convenient future reference.
HUDSON MOTOR CAR COMPANY
Service Department
WARRANTY
judgment of the Manufacturer, to affect its stability
"We warrant each new car manufactured by us to be
free from defects in material and workmanship under
normal use and service, our obligation under this warranty being limited to making good at our factory any
part or parts thereof, including all equipment or trade
accessories ( except tires) supplied by the Car Manufacturer, which shall, within ninety (90) days after
making delivery of such vehicle to the original purchaser, or before such vehicle has been driven 4,000
miles, whichever event shall first occur, be returned
to us with transportation charges prepaid, and which
our examination shall disclose to our satisfaction to
have been thus defective ; this warranty being expressly
in lieu of all other warranties expressed or implied, and
of all other obligations or liabilties on our part, and we
neither assume nor authorize any other person to assume for us any other liability in connection with the
sale of our vehicles.
"This warranty shall not apply to any vehicle which
shall have been repaired or altered by other than an
Authorized Hudson Dealer in any way so as, in the
or reliability, nor which has been subject to misuse,
negligence or accident."
HUDSON MOTOR CAR COMPANY
Detroit, Michigan, U.S, A.
The Hudson Motor Car Company reserves the right to make
any changes in or improvements on its products without incurring any liability or obligation whatever, and without being
required to make any corresponding changes or improvements
on products theretofore manufactured or sold.
OWNER'S SERVICE POLICY
sions of the Hudson Owner's Service Policy which was
We cannot too greatly impress you with the need for
reading fully and becoming acquainted with the provi-
furnished with this automobile.
AUTHORIZED
HUDSON SERVICE
STATIONS
HUD
SON
PARTS SERVICE
AUTHORIZED
The majority of automobile owners are conscientious in the service
requirements of their cars and unhesitatingly call on their car dealer
for service as and when it is required. These car owners realize that
their Hudson Dealer is in a position to render the satisfactory and
When touring or away from familiar surroundings the occasion may
arise for service needs. Look for the Hudson Authorized Service sign,
illustrated above. The Hudson Dealer displaying this sign is your
assurance of the same efficient, friendly service you receive at home.
It is your further assurance that his Service Department stocks only
HUDSON SERVICE
STATIONS
efficient service to which they are entitled.
genuine Hudson parts; uses factory approved service tools and methods and employs careful and courteous mechanics.
6 HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL
INSPECTION AND ADJUSTMENT SERVICE
The Hudson Owner's Service Policy provides that at the expiration of 1,000
miles and again at 2,000 miles of driving the Hudson Dealer from whom you purchased your car will perform an Inspection and Adjustment Service without
charge, except for supplies or lubricants used.
Should either of these inspections be performed by another Authorized Hudson
Dealer (one who did not sell the car) a charge of not to exceed :$5.00 will be
made for either the 1,000-mile inspection or the 2,000-mile inspection. In this
event the owner should secure a receipted bill and present it with the Owner's Policy to his own Dealer (who sold the car) and that Dealer will provide for one or
two additional inspections, whichever the case may be, without charge, except for
supplies and lubricants used.
We urge you to carefully read the provisions of the Owner's Service Policy so
that you will fully understand this procedure.
The Inspection and Adjustment Service consists of the following :
1,000 Mile
1. Check Operation of All Locks.
2. Check Signals and Instruments.
3. Check Operation of Lights.
4. Check Battery and Connections.
5. Tighten Cylinder Head Stud Nuts.
6. Tighten Manifolds.
7. Check Cooling System and Coolant.
8. Check Clutch Pedal Clearance.
2,000 Mile
1. Check Operation of Signals and In
struments.
2. Check Operation of All Lights.
3. Check Operation of Windshield
Wipers.
4. Inspect Cooling System and Conn-
ections (Anti-Freeze in Winter).
5. Check Battery and Connections
9. Check Axle Shaft Nut Tightness.
10. Check Wheel Hub Bolts.
11. Check Rear Spring Clips.
12. Check Body Bolts.
13. Check Hand and Foot Brakes.
14. Check Drive-Master.
15. Road Test.
6. Adjust Tappets—Engine Hot.
7. Tune-Up Engine.
8. Check Generator Charging
Rate.
9. Check Wheel Hub Bolts.
10. Check Hand and Foot Brakes.
11. Check Drive-Master.
12. Road Test
HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL 7
1947 MODELS
MODEL DESIGNATION AND SERIAL NUMBERS
To simplify identification of the various models referred to in this Owner's Manual, model
reference is made to series numbers listed below.
The car serial number which is also the engine number is stamped on a small plate attached to the
right front door hinge pillar post. These serial numbers are based on a system which codes the first
three digits to the series : e.g. 171101 indicates series 171 while 172101 and 173101 indicate
series 172 and 173 respectively. The first three digits remain unchanged regardless of the number
of cars produced. Cars are also numbered consecutively as they leave the production line without
regard to series. As an example, the car built after car serial 171999 would be numbered 1711000,
1721000, 1731000, 1741000 or 1781000, instead of 172000.
The engine number is stamped on the top of the cylinder block between Nos. 1 and 2 exhaust
manifold flanges.
CAUTION: Do not confuse engine number with casting or other numbers appearing at
different locations on engine.
When ordering service parts or corresponding with your dealer always refer to this number.
Also be sure this number corresponds to the one shown on your Owner's Service Policy,
Identification Card, and Car Registration Card.
The car color option code letter is stamped on the upper hinge of the right front door.
LICENSE INFORMATION
HUDSON SUPER SIX MODEL—SERIES 171
5”
5”
5”
5”
5”
5”
5”
4½
4½
4½
4½
4½
A.M.A.
H.P.
Rating
21.6
21.6
21.6
21.6
21.6
21.6
21.6
28.8
28.8
28.8
28.8
28.8
Body Types
4 Door Sedan
Brougham
3 Pass. Coupe
Club Coupe
Convertible
Brougham
4 Door Sedan
Club Coupe
Cab Pick-Up 6 128” 3” 5” 21.6 178101 3110
4 Door Sedan
Club Coupe
4 Door Sedan
Club Coupe
Convertible
Brougham
The above weights include spare tire, tube and wheel, but do not include water, oil
or gasoline.
No. of
Cyls.
HUDSON COMMODORE SIX MODEL—SERIES 172
HUDSON ¾-TON COMMERCIAL MODEL—SERIES 178
HUDSON SUPER EIGHT MODEL—SERIES 173
HUDSON COMMODORE EIGHT MODEL—SERIES 174
Wheel-
base Bore Stroke
6
6
6
6
6
6
6
8
8
8
8
8
121”
121”
121”
121”
121”
121”
121”
121”
121”
121”
121”
121”
3”
3”
3”
3”
3”
3”
3”
3”
3”
3”
3”
3”
Starting
Serial
No.
171101
and
up
172101
and up
173101
and up
174101
and
up
Dry
Weight
Pounds
3110
3055
2975
3040
3220
3175
2090
3260
3210
3330
3260
3435
8 HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
ENGINE
Series No.
171, 172, 178............... 6 3"
173, 174 ..................... 8 3"
Compression Ratio
All Models
Horsepower (Actual)
171, 172, 178....................102 0 4000 R.P.M.
173, 174.........................128 4200 R.P.M.
Main Bearings (Number)
6 cylinder............................................ 3
8 cylinder............................................ 5
Pistons
Material ..........................Aluminum Alloy
Skirt Clearance—
Bottom................................ .0005" to
.001
CARBURETOR AND FUEL SYSTEM
Carburetor
Make .............................................Carter
Series Size Type
171, 172, 178................l" Duplex Down-draft
173, 174.................13/4" Duplex Down-draft
Choke Control
All
Models...............................Automatic
STARTING, LIGHTING AND IGNITION
Make.......................................................................................................................................Auto-Lite
Generator
Type ..................................................................................3rd brush—voltage regulated
Charging Rate—
Cold—All Models.............................................................................................Max.
Hot—All Models...................................................................Max. 38 Amperes
Distributor
Spark Control. Automatic (Additional
vacuum control on 6 cylinder models)
Contact Point Gap
6 cylinder..........................................020"
8 cylinder..........................................017"
Ignition Timing
6 cylinder.............½" on flywheel B.T.D.C.
8 cylinder......................................................T.D.C.
Firing Order
6 cylinder................................l-5-3-6-2-4
8 cylinder..........................1-6-2-5-8-3-7-4
Cyls. Bore
6.
50 to 1
A.M.A. Piston
Stroke H.P. Displacement
21.6 212 cu. in.
4½" 28.8 254 cu. in.
Oil Rings—
Number ...............................................2
Oil Rings-
Upper—Width ...............................3/16"
Oil Rings-
Lower—Width.......................................5/32"
Compression Rings—
Number ...............................................2
Compression Rings—
Width..................................................................3/32"
Camshaft Drive
Type Silent Helical Gears
Manifold Heat Control Type
All Models .......................................Automatic
Air Cleaner
Standard ..........................................Oil wetted
Optional ............................... .Oil bath
44
Amperes
Spark Plugs
Make and .type...Champion Hudson J-9
Size ..........................................14 M.M.
Point Gap......................................................062"
Battery
Make ........................................National
Dimensions-6 cylinder, Length-10½"
Width-7½”
Height-7
8 cylinder, Length-11¾"
Width-7¼"
Height-713/16"
Number of plates
6 cylinder ........................................51
8 cylinder ........................................57
Terminal grounded..........................Positive
-1 3
/16"
HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL 9
Sealed Beam Type
Semi-floating
Helical bevel
LAMP BULB SPECIFICATIONS
S.C.
S.C.
S.C.
S.C.
S.C.
S.C.
S.C.
S.C.
S.C.
S.C.
S.C.
S.C.
S.C
Volt-
age
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
Position Mazda No. C.P. Base
Headlamp
Bonnet Lamp
Fender Lamp (with Direction Indicator)
Fender Lamp (without Direction Indicator)
Tail and Stop Lamp
License Lamp
Dome Lamp
Generator and Oil Indicator
Clock
Speedometer—Series 171, 173, 178
Speedometer—Series 172, 174
Radio
Direction Indicator
Headlamp Beam
Ignition Lock
Courtesy Lamp
Fog Lamp
Spot Light
55
1158
63
1154
63
88
51
55
51
55
44
51
51
55
88
121lS
1209S
2
21-3
3
21-3
3
15
1
2
1
2
1
1
1
2
15
50
32
D.C.
D.C.
D.C.
D.C.
CLUTCH
Type
Series
Fluid cushioned, cork-insert disc
Disc Size
171, 172 without Overdrive, Vacumotive Drive, and Hudson Drive Master 9”
171, 172 with Overdrive, Vacumotive Drive, and Hudson Drive-Master,
and all 173, 174 and 178 models 10”
TRANSMISSION
Type
Speeds
Gear Ratios
All Models
288.1 to 1
Synchronized Silent Mesh—All helical gear
3 forward-1 reverse
Low
Second
1.82 to 1
High
1 to 1
Reverse
3.50 to 1
TRANSMISSION OVERDRIVE
Final rear axle ratio when car is equipped with Overdrive—All Series
Actual Axle Ratio In Overdrive
4 5/9 to 1 3.28 to 1
4 1/9 to 1 2.96 to 1
FRONT SUSPENSION
Type
Camber
Caster
Toe-in
Independent Coil Spring
½° to 1½°
½º to 1½º
0 to 1/16"
Type
Gear Type
Gear Ratio:
Standard Ratio
Optional Ratio
Standard Ratio with Overdrive
Optional Ratio wlth Overdrive
Standard Ratio with Hudson Drive-Master
Optional Ratio with Hudson Drive-Master
REAR AXLE
Series
172 172 173 174 178
4 l/9
4 5/9
4 5/9
4 l/9
4 5/9
4 l/9
4 l/9
4 5/9
4 5/9
4 1/9
4 5/9
4 l/9
4 1/9
4 5/9
4 5/9
4 1/9
4 l/9
4 5/9
4 l/9
4 5/9
4 5/9
4 l/9
4 l/9
4 5/9
4 5/9
—
4 5/9
—
4 5/9
—
BRAKES
Type
Size:
Series
171, 172
173, 174, 178
Lining Clearance .075" Pedal to Floor Board Clearance ¼"
Mechanical Follow-up Clearance 1¼"
Diameter
10"
11"
STEERING GEAR
Width
1¾"
1¾"
Type
Worm and roller tooth
Gear Ratio
6 cylinder
18.2 to 1 8 cylinder 18.4 to 1
CHASSIS DIMENSIONS
Series
171, 172, 173, 174
178
Wheelbase
121"
128"
Over-all Length—Including
Bumpers
171, 172, 173, 174 207"
178 214"
Over-all Height—Free Height
68¾"
171, 172, 173, 174
Over-all Width—Including
Fenders
Froont—All Models 71"
Rear—All Models 72¾"
Series
171, 173
172, 174
178
Cold Hot
Tire Pressures
Size
6.00" x 16"
6.50" x 16"
6.50" x 15"
7.00" x 15" (Opt.)
26 lbs.
26 lbs.
26 lbs.
26 lbs.
TIRES
6.00" x 16"
6.50" x 15"
6.50" x 16"
Front
29 lbs.
29 lbs.
29 lbs.
29 lbs.
171, 173
172, 174, 178
Turning Radius
171, 172, 173, 174
178
Tread
Front—All Models
Rear—All Models
Size
Series
Road Clearance
Front
Rear
95/8" 83/8"
9¾" 8½"
Cold Rear
Rear
30 lbs.
40 lbs.
30 lbs.
30 lbs.
21’ 1"
21’ 10"
56¼"
59½"
Ply
4
4
6
33 lbs.
44 lbs.
33 lbs.
33 lbs.
Gasoline Tank
All Models
Cooling System
6 cylinder
8 cylinder
Engine Crankcase
6 cylinder—dry
—refill
8 cylinder—dry
—refill
Clutch
All Models
CAPACITIES
U. S.
Measure
16½ gal.
13 qts.
18 qts.
5½ qts.
4½ qts.
9 qts.
7 qts.
1
/3 pint
Imperial
Measure
13¾ gal.
10¾ qts.
15 qts.
4½ qts,
3¾ qts.
9 qts.
7 qts.
¼ pint
Metric
Measure
62½ liters
12½ liters
17 liters
5¼ liters
4¼ liters
8½ liters
6½ liters
160 c.c.
Present day sustained high speed driving, fast acceleration, and closer fitting
precision machined parts, place chassis and engine lubrication in the category of a
highly specialized operation. A very definite plan of application is necessary to
provide the various working parts with the right amount of the correct lubricant at
the proper time. Quite contrary to ordinary belief one lubricant will not suffice for all
chassis parts. Varying load demands and peculiarities of operation of the various parts
require different types of lubricants to prevent friction and reduce wear to a minimum.
cation specifications for your car, as well as the definite plan of application. This
is your assurance that the lubrication requirements of your automobile will be met
For your guidance a copy of the Chassis Lubrication Chart is attached to the front
cover of this manual. Another quick reference chart will be found on the left side of
the dash in the engine compartment. Following is a Lubrication Schedule covering
the lubrication requirements from 500 to 10,000 miles. Careful study of these charts
The lubricants placed in your car at the time of assembly are of the finest quality
procurable and NEED NOT be changed until the recommended change period
HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL 11
Transmission
Without Overdrive
With Overdrive
Rear Axle
All Models
Shock Absorbers
All Models
U. S.
Measuure
2 lbs.
3¼ lbs.
2½ lbs.
Front Rear
3¾ oz. (112 c.c.) 6¼ oz (187 c.c.)
Imperial
Measure
2 lbs
3¼ lbs
2¾ lbs.
Metric
Measure
.91 kgs.
1.47 kgs.
1.24 kgs.
LUBRICATION
Your Authorized Hudson Dealer has been provided with the correct factory lubri-
with the greatest care. Be sure to consult him on this most important matter.
and the schedule is recommended.
shown in the Lubrication Schedule has been reached.
LUBRICATIONS SCHEDULE
AT 500 MILES
See "The Proper Engine Oil to Use," page 14.
l,000 MILES
Upper Support Arm Eccentric Bushing..............Viscous Chassis Lubricant2 fittings
Upper Support Arm Pivot Bushing.................... Viscous Chassis Lubricant 4 fittings
Lower Support Arm to Support Pivot
Bushing ............................................................ Viscous Chassis Lubricant 2 fittings
Lower Support Arm Pivot Bushing................... Viscous Chassis Lubricant 4 fittings
Spindle Pivot Pin.................................................. Viscous Chassis Lubricant 2 fittings
Tie Rod End......................................................... Viscous Chassis Lubricant 4 fittings
Steering Center Arm Bearings............................ Viscous Chassis Lubricant 1 fitting
Drag Link ............................................................ Viscous Chassis Lubricant 2 fittings
Clutch and Brake Pedal Shaft Bushings............ Viscous Chassis Lubricant 1 fitting
Drive-Master Transfer Key (Opt. Equip.).........Viscous Chassis Lubricant 1 fitting
Clutch Throwout Bearing
Universal Joint Spline
Universal Joint Roller Bearing
Rear Spring Rear Shackle Bushing
Water Pump
Viscous Chassis Lubricant 1 fitting
Viscous Chassis Lubricant 1 fitting
Viscous Chassis Lubricant 2 fittings
Viscous Chassis Lubricant 4 fittings
Aluminum Soap Base Grease 1 fitting or other water-resistant grease
Distributor-6 cylinder
Engine
Battery
Radiator
*Transmission
*Rear Axle
Steering Gear
Brake Master Cylinder
Front Door Hinge Pins
Water Pump Grease Turn grease cup 1
turn
Check Oil Level
Add water if less than % inch above plates
Check Water Level or Anti-Freeze
Check level and add lubricant if necessary
Cheek level and add lubricant if necessary
Check level and add lubricant if necessary
Check level and add fluid if necessary
Light Engine Oil Hole in each lower
hinge
Door Dovetail and Striker
Light Engine Oil Two places each
door
Front Door tipper and Rear Door Lower
Hinge Tension Springs
Striker Pawls
Water Pump Grease. Apply by hand
Pencil lubricant. Coat lightly
2,000 MILES
Perform operations listed under 1,000-mile lubrication in addition to the following:
Engine
See "Proper Oil to
Drain and Refill
Use"—page 14
Generator
Starting Motor
Distributor-6 and 8 cylinder
Distributor-6 cylinder
Light Engine Oil
Light Engine Oil
Water Pump
Grease
Light Engine Oil
2 cups
2 cups
Cam lobes
Contact arm pivot
and wick in top
of rotor shaft
Distributor-8 cylinder
Light Engine Oil
Oil cup, contact arm
pivot and wick in
Throttle Linkage
Bonnet Support and Lock Shaft
Brake Operating Linkage
Carburetor Air Cleaner
•Drive-Master Linkage
•Vacumotive Drive Linkage
Light Engine Oil
Light Engine Oil
Light Engine Oil
Engine Oil
Light Engine Oil
Light Engine Oil
top of rotor shaft
All joints
All joints
All joints
Clean and re-oil
All joints
All joints
5,000 MILES
Perform the operations listed under 1,000 and 2,000-mile lubrication (except change
engine oil) in addition to the following:
Rear Brake Cables Viscous Chassis Lubricant Coat Cables
Distributor-6 cylinder Water Pump Grease Fill Cup
Oil Filter Replace Cartridge
Drain and Refill These Units:
Transmission S.A.E. 90 E.P. Summer 2 lbs.—with
S.A.E. 80 E.P. Winter overdrive 3% lbs.
Rear Axle S.A.E. 90 E.P. Summer and Winter 2¾ lbs.
Clutch Hudsonite
1
/3 pint
• Optional equipment.
*Important: When checking transmission and rear axle oil level care should
be taken that the oil foam has subsided. If the car has been run for any length
of time it should be permitted to stand long enough to allow the oil to reach
The S.A.E. 90 E.P. and S.A.E. 80 E.P. gear oils specified should be of a mild extreme
pressure, non-corrosive type. When adding lubricant to or refilling the transmission or
Special "break-in" oils or compounds are not necessary in Hudson engines. Your
decision to use them should be based on the manufacturer's assurance that they contain
The capacity of the oil reservoir in SIX cylinder engines is five and one-half
quarts ; in EIGHT cylinder engines nine quarts. When oil is drained in the
conventional manner, refill SIX cylinder engines with four and one-half quarts of
When the oil reservoir is removed for cleaning, pour one and one-half quarts of oil
into the upper tray of SIX cylinder engines before the reservoir is reassembled.
Then pour the additional four quarts through the oil filler hole. On EIGHT
cylinder engines pour two quarts of oil into the upper tray before reassembling it
It is not unusual to add oil between change periods. Its rate of usage is governed
by the individual engine and is dependent on operating speeds, temperatures,
HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL 13
Perform the operations listed under 1,000, 2,000 and 5,000-mile lubrication in addition to
Front Wheel Bearings Milled Sodium Base 4 ounces per wheel
Lubricant
Rear Wheel Bearings Milled Sodium Base 1½ ounces per
Lubricant wheel
Spring Covers Viscous Chassis Lubricant
Vacumotive Drive Cylinder Hudson Shock Absorber 1 ounce
(Optional Equipment) Fluid
Drive-Master Cylinder Hudson Shock Absorber 1 ounce
(Optional Equipment) Fluid
10,000 MILES
the following:
its actual level before checking.
rear axle be sure the lubricants used meet these requirements for satisfactory operation.
BREAK-IN OILS NOT REQUIRED
no harmful ingredients.
CRANKCASE CAPACITIES
oil and EIGHT cylinder engines with seven quarts.
to the engine and pour the additional seven quarts in through the oil filler hole.
CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL
viscosity of oil used, etc.
The level should be checked each time f uel is added. The oil gauge, illustrated in
placed in the engine at the factory.
14 HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL
Fig. 1, is located on the left side of the
engine. It is divided off at the lower end
into two divisions — Oil Level Range and
Low.
For normal operation the oil level is
satisfactory when it is within the Oil Level
Range. For high speed operation the level
should be maintained at the full mark, that
is the top line on the Oil Level Range.
To make an accurate check of the oil
level it is best to wait a minute or two after
the engine has been shut off to permit the
oil on the engine parts to drain back into the
reservoir.
Two and one-half quarts of oil are required
Figure 1
to restore the level from low to full in both six and eight cylinder engines. If the level
is low, and the speedometer reading indicates that the oil change period is near at
hand, it is more economical to have the oil changed.
WHEN TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
During the first 500 miles of driving it is satisfactory to use the oil which was
Thereafter at intervals of 2,000 miles the oil reservoir should be drained and
refilled with the proper grade of oil. If the car is operated constantly in dusty areas or
for short distances at slow speeds in the winter, which permits foreign matter to
accumulate in the oil and contaminate it, the oil should be changed more frequently.
The actual change period, however, depends largely on the individual circumstances.
To drain the oil remove the plug at the rear of the oil reservoir. Always drain the
oil when it is warm as it will then flow more freely.
It is good practice to remove the oil reservoir at least twice a year, preferably in
the fall and spring, to permit cleaning the screens and removing all traces of sludge
which may have accumulated in the lower pan.
Caution: When flushing oils or compounds are used in the engine, it is important
to remove the oil reservoir and thoroughly clean it out before installing the new oil.
THE PROPER ENGINE OIL TO USE
There are two important factors to consider when buying engine oil. The first is
the selection of a well-known, dependable brand. There are many good, well-bodied,
long-lived oils on the market and your selection should be based on the reputation of
the refiner or marketer. He is responsible for the quality of his product and his
reputation is the car owner's best indication of quality.
The first requisite is closely related to the
second factor, in that the oil should have the
ability to flow at low temperatures, to permit
easy starting, and at the same time afford ade-
quate lubrication when the engine reaches nor-
mal operating temperatures. The oil used should
be based on its ability to perform these two
functions at the lowest anticipated temperatures
expected before the next oil change period. See
The following table will he helpful in making
Note: Kerosene should be added only when
HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL 15
S.A.E. 20
20 W
10 W
10 W, plus 10%
Fig. 2.
this selection :
Use
Use 90° Average temperature S.A.E. 30
Minimum anticipated
temperatures
32°
10°
—10°
Below —10°
kerosene.
temperatures below minus 10° are expected for long periods
Your Authorized Hudson Dealer, who has had
long experience with the brands of oils available
in your locality, will be glad to help you with
your lubrication problems
OIL FILTER
A Hudson Oil Filter, see Fig. 3, which aids in
removing foreign matter and impurities under
low pressure, and at the same time maintains a
normal flow of oil through the engine is available
through your Authorized Hudson Dealer. This
filter will keep the oil cleaner for longer periods
and help minimize wear on engine parts.
The cartridge should be replaced every 5,000
to 6,000 miles or whenever the oil shows definite
signs of becoming cloudy. Replacement cartridges should be secured from your Authorized
Hudson Dealer
Figure 3
16 HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL
prevent damage to it and avoid oil leaks.
prevent twisting the hose.
period.
present day automobile are self-evident to the driver, nevertheless a review of their
purposes and operation, and a full knowledge of the newer controls before driving your
SEAT ADJUSTING LEVER is located
on the left side of the seat to secure fore
and aft movement of the seat for greater
comfort. On long drives, periodically
changing the seat position will prove
restful. The small knob shown in Fig. 4,
is raised with the finger to unlock the
seat. Simply releasing the knob locks it
ACCELERATOR PEDAL (A), Fig. 5,
controls the speed of the car. Never
pump the accelerator when starting the
engine as it will result in flooding. When
starting a cold engine, the accelerator
pedal should be pressed down one-half
1Replace the cartridge by turning the handle on the cover in a counterclockwise direction.
Lift out the old cartridge and replace it with the new one. Be sure to use the new cover
gasket furnished with the cartridge. The gasket must set squarely on the filter body to
Note : Whenever tightening hose connections be sure to
use two
wrenches to
It is also good policy to change the engine oil at this time. Using new oil with the new
cartridge will help keep the oil cleaner for a longer
CRANKCASE VENTILATION
Diluents, consisting mainly of water resulting from condensation and unburned gasoline,
contaminate the engine oil. If these diluents were permitted to remain in the engine oil for
any length of time, early deterioration of parts would result.
In the Hudson engine a ventilating system is provided whereby the diluents are drawn
out of the crankcase by vacuum through ventilator tubes on the right side of the engine.
The violent agitation of the oil by the connecting rod dippers tends to vaporize the water,
unburned fuel and other harmful diluents, allowing them to be withdrawn from the
engine by the vacuum created when the car is in motion.
OPERATING CONTROLS
From year to year new devices are introduced by the automobile industry to make
driving easier, safer, and to provide more comfort. While many of the controls on the
new Hudson will be helpful. It is, therefore, recommended that you carefully read these
instructions.
Figure 4
in position.
way and released slowly. With a warm
HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL 17
quarter to one-half way and hold in this
position when cranking. On cars equipped
with Hudson Drive-Master, Overdrive, or
Vacumotive Drive the accelerator pedal is
used to engage or disengage the clutch for
ASH RECEIVER (6), Fig. 6, may be
BONNET LOCKING HANDLE (12),
Fig. 6, should be pushed fully forward to
unlock the bonnet. Pull handle back all the
BRAKE PEDAL (C), Fig. 5, hydraulically operates brakes on all wheels. In event
of disablement of the hydraulic system, continued pressure on the pedal automatically
CLOCK (20), Fig. 6. Mechanical clock requires winding every day. Turn knob
clockwise to wind. Pull knob out to reset. Electric clock requires no attention. Fuse is
CLUTCH PEDAL (D), Fig. 5, should be depressed fully to floor board when
shifting gears. The clutch pedal must be depressed before pressing the starter button
or the starter will not operate on cars equipped with Hudson Drive-Master. When
starting the engine, particularly when it is cold, depressing the clutch pedal manually
will disconnect the load of the transmission from the starting motor and facilitate
engine, depress the accelerator pedal one-
gear shifting.
opened by lifting the knob.
Figure 5
way to lock it.
applies the brakes on the rear wheels mechanically.
located in back of clock. Pull out knob to reset.
starting.
COURTESY LAMPS, at bottom of door lock pillar, are standard on Series 172 and
174. These lamps are lighted by switches operated by the doors when they are opened, day or
COWL VENTILATOR HANDLE (17), Fig. 6, should be pushed forward to open
DIRECTION INDICATOR (2) is optional on all models. Push lever up for right
turn and push it down for left turn. Lever returns to off position automatically when
turn is completed. Pilot light (1) on instrument panel flashes with front and rear indicator
DRIVE-MASTER (optional equipment) control switch. Pressing in "HDM" button
permits operation with Hudson Drive-Master. Pressing in "VAC" button permits
power clutch operation with conventional gear shifting. Pressing in "OFF" button
permits conventional operation of clutch and gear shifting. For more complete details, see
page 51. Control buttons are located at lower center on face of panel.
FRONT DOME LAMP SWITCH (Series 172 and 174) is of the sliding type located
FUEL GAUGE (3) indicates the fuel level in the gasoline tank when the ignition is
turned on. When needle reaches empty mark, approximately 2 gallons of fuel remains in
GENERATOR CHARGING INDICATOR (10) shows red when ignition is turned
on or when engine is idling at low speed. Light should go out as speed is increased. If
difficulty is encountered in the electrical system or generator is not charging, the light will
either flash or stay on as a warning. Have the electrical system checked by your nearest
HAND BRAKE HANDLE (11), Fig. 6, should be applied by pulling straight back
and at the same time depressing the brake pedal. Release by turning 1/4 turn to right
HEADLAMP BEAM INDICATOR (4), Fig. 6, shows red when heal lamp beam
HEADLAMP FOOT SWITCH (G), Fig. 5, controls country (upper) and traffic
(lower) beams. When meeting oncoming traffic and headlamp beam indicator shows red,
depress foot switch once and release for lower beam. Pressing switch the second time restores
HORN BUTTON RING (14), Fig. 6 (Opt. equipment on Series 171, 173, and 178 ;
LIGHTING SWITCH (19) controls instrument lights, headlamps, bonnet lights,
fender lamps, tail and license lamps. Pressing button once and releasing it turns on
instrument lights, bonnet light, fender lamps, when used, tail and license lamps. Second
position of button turns on headlamps in addition to other lamps previously lighted.
18 HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL
night.
ventilator and pulled back to close it.
signals.
DOOR LOCKS—see page 63.
at bottom of instrument panel on right side.
reserve.
Authorized Hudson Dealer.
and pushing downward as far as it will go.
is in upper or country driving position.
beam to upper position.
std. on Series 172 and 174). Press down from any position to operate horns.
IGNITION SWITCH (15) key should be turned to the right to turn ignition "on."
Pressing the button the third time turns off all lights.
HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL 19
LOCKER BOX LOCK (9) is opened by pressing down to open door. Lock by inserting
OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR (8) shows red when ignition is turned on and engine is
not running. Light should go out when engine is started. Should the light flash or stay on when
the engine is running it indicates lack of oil in the reservoir, or some derangement of the
OVERDRIVE CONTROL KNOB (Opt. equipment). Push knob in for overdrive
operation and pull it out for conventional driving. See page 49 for more complete details.
RADIO FOOT SWITCH (H), Figure 5, (optional equipment). Press lightly to reduce
RHEOSTAT (13), Figure 6, located at bottom of instrument panel, is standard on Series
172 and 174. It controls the brilliancy of instrument lights. Turning knob to right decreases
SPEEDOMETER MILEAGE INDICATOR shows accumulated mileage. It is
STARTER SWITCH BUTTON (16) must be pressed in to operate starting motor.
The clutch pedal must be depressed before pressing the starter button or the starter will not
operate on cars equipped with Hudson Drive-Master. Do not press button when
engine is running, or car is in gear. Switch will not operate unless ignition is turned on.
TRANSMISSION CONTROL LEVER (Handy Shift), Fig. 7, should always be
placed in neutral position before starting en-
perature of cooling fluid only when ignition
tional to automatic clutch operation press the "VAC" button located at lower center on face
oughly to be sure that all adjustments were in order ; that all lubrication fittings and units
key and turning it 1/4 turn counter-clockwise.
oiling system. Engine should be stopped at once and source of difficulty determined.
volume and press hard to change station.
light and turning it to the left increases brilliancy. Extreme left position turns out instrument lights.
located below the speedometer.
gine. For cars with Hudson Drive-
Master, see page 51. Raise knob and
move it forward for reverse gear and rearward for low gear. Move to neutral, depress
and slide it forward for second gear and
rearward for high gear.
WA T E R T E M PE R A TU R E
GAUGE (5), Fig. 6, indicates tem-
is turned on. Needle returns to "H" position
at right side of dial when ignition is turned
oil.
Figure 7
WINDSHIELD WIPER KNOB (7)
should be turned to the left to operate wipers.
VACUMOTIVE DRIVE CONTROL (optional equipment). To change from conven-
of panel. Revert to conventional by pressing the "OFF" button. Refer also to page 46.
DRIVING YOUR NEW CAR
Before your new Hudson automobile was delivered to you, your Dealer checked it over thor-
of the car were properly lubricated ; that the cooling system was filled to the proper
At the time your car was built, a speed governor was installed on the carburetor and sealed
to restrict top speed and fast acceleration during the initial break-in period. This governor
When the speedometer indicates 500 miles, the car should be returned to your Dealer to
have the governor removed. There is no charge for this service. At this time the engine oil
should be changed, as car speeds will be increased from this point and it is good practice
Although the governor has been removed it does not necessarily mean that the bars
should be let down on car speed. The first 500 miles is commonly called the initial
break-in period. Until the car has been driven at least another 1,000 miles it should be
driven at moderate speeds to give the close fitting, precision machined working parts an
opportunity to assume smooth operating surfaces. The following table will be helpful in
All models are fitted with automatic choke type carburetors. The automatic choke
proportions the correct mixture of air and gasoline for starting and warm-up period.
NOTE : The clutch pedal must be depressed before pressing the starter button or the
starter will not operate on cars equipped with Hudson Drive-Master.
Before starting the engine be sure the Handy Shift transmission control lever is placed
in neutral position (this applies to all models). Depress clutch pedal to release load of
transmission. Turn on ignition switch. If engine is completely cold from standing for
several hours or overnight, depress the accelerator pedal at least half way and release
slowly. Then press starter button. Depressing the accelerator pedal in this manner places
the throttle in proper position for cold starting. This will result in a higher than normal
engine idle speed. Depressing the accelerator pedal again slightly and releasing it will
permit the engine to run at the normal high idle speed to prevent stalling during the warm-up.
Do not allow the engine to run continuously at the starting speeds as it will load up and
stall if left for a minute or two.
If the engine is warm from previous running and has not been standing long enough to
become completely cold, depress the accelerator pedal one-quarter to one-half way and hold
20 HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL
level, and that the tires were inflated to the proper pressures.
causes a slight increase in carburetor intake noise as long as it is in place.
to have clean, fresh oil in the engine.
guiding you as to the highest speeds that should be attained.
0— 250 Miles—Do not exceed 40 miles per hour in high gear.
250— 500 Miles—Do not exceed 50 miles per hour in high gear.
500— 1000 Miles—Do not exceed 60 miles per hour in high gear.
STARTING THE ENGINE
in this position while cranking. Then press starter button.
Should the engine fail to start when following these instructions, it may be due to-
1. Improper engine tune-up.
2. In cold weather, improper lubricants.
3. A combination of 1 and 2.
REAR COMPARTMENT DOOR—To safeguard the spare tire, tools,
and any luggage that you may be carrying, always lock the rear compartment
HUDSON OWNER’S MANUAL 21
In such an event it is recommended that you consult your Authorized Hudson Dealer.
CARBON MONOXIDE GAS
CARBON MONOXIDE, A DEADLY, COLORLESS, ODORLESS
GAS IS ALWAYS PRESENT IN THE EXHAUST OF THE INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE. GARAGE DOORS SHOULD
ALWAYS BE FULLY OPENED WHEN STARTING OR RUNNING
THE ENGINE.
LOCKING YOUR CAR
When your car was delivered to you it was provided with two sets of keys. The
keys with round handles fit the ignition and both front door outside locks. The keys
with the octagonal shaped handles fit the locker box door and rear compartment
locks.
All keys are numbered and these numbers should be registered on your Ownership Card
as well as some other suitable place where they will be available should the keys become
lost. As insurance regulations prohibit the stamping of key numbers on lock cylinders, misplaced or lost keys can be obtained from your Hudson Dealer only by
referring to key change number.
Many cars are driven away by unscrupulous persons simply because the ignition
key was left in the lock. Make it a practice to remove the key from the lock if the
car is to be left unattended even for only a few minutes. This is also assurance
against accidentally locking yourself out of the car.
DOOR LOCKS—All doors can be locked from the inside by pulling up on the rubber
knob (B) protruding from the door finish
moulding, see Fig. 8. To unlock the door
press down the knob. Both the right and left
front doors may be locked or unlocked
from the outside with the ignition switch
key. Turning the key one-quarter turn in a
clockwise rotation and back to the starting
position locks the door. To unlock, turn the
key one-quarter turn in counter-clock-
wise rotation and then back to starting
position.
LOCKER BOX DOOR—To lock the
Figure 8
door turn key one-quarter turn clockwise and
remove key. To unlock it turn key onequarter turn counter-clockwise and remove
key.
When door is unlocked it can be opened by pressing down on lock cylinder face.
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