1941 Plymouth Question

[1940plymouth]

I have included an insert from a 1941 Plymouth ad that says to enjoy the new power gearing, you seldom use low. Start in second--slip quickly into high

Did the '41's have a heavier duty clutch with this option?

Hopefully the scan is readable.

Thanks,

Bob

[greg g]

Behold the power of low speed torque. Haven't you noticed that it is mostly unnecessary to shift out of high gear when making turns???? Unless you come to a stop going around the turn, you can basically accelerate from 10mph in high gear without lugging the engine.

Some of the 40/42 cars had a different second gear, but it usually a higher one than normal, allowing speeds up to 55 or so. I know my car with just me in it doesn't mind starting in second. Mine seems to hollar to be shifted at about 40 though.

[1940plymouth]

Ok, now I understand, yes, my old Plymouth doesn't mind starting out in second gear, although I very seldom do so, and yes, it sure does do a fine job on turns onto other roads without shifting down into second.

Thanks Greg,

Bob

[Roadkingcoupe]

I have included an insert from a 1941 Plymouth ad that says to enjoy the new power gearing' date=' you seldom use low. Start in second--slip quickly into high

Did the '41's have a heavier duty clutch with this option?

Hopefully the scan is readable.

Thanks,

Bob[/quote']

In addition to great torque the 1941 was offered with "Powermatic shifting" was an optional vacuum assist for selecting gears. It is easily identified on vehicles with a CHROME Gear shift knob in the shape of an airplane tail. The shifting was aided by a vacuum powered canister that "power shifted" for you with the minimal "effort" by the driver. You still started off in first gear but the shifting was aided by the vacuum operated option. The canister was mounted along with some rod linkage to the stock shift linkage (I have one around here and will add a pic as soon as I find it). The Chrysler propaganda overstates the benefits in the quote below:

"A great new thrill awaits when you try Plymouth's new Powermatic shifting. Here is a great new 1941 development that permits vast reduction in driving effort, available on all models. The new butterfly shifting knob tells you: Here is Powermatic Shifting. Look for it!"

Edited February 11, 2010 by Roadkingcoupe

[Frank M.]

If anybody wants one of those power shift knobs--I got a good one,handle and all!. Frank M.

[Mechanik]

Heres the pics Pops.

[claybill]

.....'cause the rear end is a 4:11..you can start in 2nd.

the chrome shifter knob wont screw off like the plastic ones..neat trick by plymouth!! yu need the whole arm.

bill

[Skrambler]

If you need just the chrome shifting knob, you can remove it. This takes time and mostly patience. It does not screw on at all, but is pushed on with very fine splines. Even pressure, not tapping from side to side will remove the knob. I have only done this to re-chrome the knob. It was again a bit of a trick to install. Probably would not do this again, but live and learn...

[claybill]

yes..good to know.....but the chrome knob WILL NOT go on the regular shifter..

blll

[P-12 Tommy]

'cause it's threaded.