Target Audience:
Owners, mechanics, and restorers of 1926 Hudson Essex vehicles seeking accurate repair and maintenance guidance.
Value Proposition:
Provides essential technical knowledge to maintain and repair a classic vehicle, saving time and money on potential service costs and ensuring proper operation.
Essential Resource:
Crucial for preserving the integrity and functionality of a historic automobile.
Knowledge Enhancement:
Empowers users with detailed understanding, fostering a deeper connection with their vintage vehicle.
Era Relevance:
Reflects the engineering and maintenance practices of the mid-1920s automotive industry.
General Service Repair:
Comprehensive service and repair information for the 1926 Hudson Essex.
Coachwork And Body:
Specific procedures for Hudson & Essex Coach repairs, including body panels and trim.
Electrical Systems:
Detailed wiring diagrams for Hudson & Essex models.
Specifications And Data:
Reference sheets containing critical vehicle specifications.
Body Glass:
Windshield, top, and body glass specifications.
Specialized Tools:
Information on Hudson & Essex service tools.
Estimated Pages:
Estimated 200-400 pages (typical for manuals of this era and scope; actual count not provided).
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Software:
Adobe PDF Reader
Engine:
Engine overhauling, tuning, lubrication, cooling system, and related components.
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment, fuel lines, and fuel tank servicing.
Ignition System:
Distributor, coil, spark plugs, and wiring maintenance.
Transmission:
Clutch service, gearbox disassembly and assembly, lubrication.
Drivetrain:
Rear axle servicing, driveshaft maintenance, universal joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component inspection, lubrication, and repair.
Steering:
Steering gear adjustment, linkage servicing, wheel alignment principles.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system inspection, adjustment, lining replacement, fluid specifications.
Electrical Systems:
Lighting system, starting and charging systems, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Frame inspection, body panel repairs, fender mounting, running boards.
Interior:
Seat repairs, trim work, dashboard components, weatherproofing.
Glass And Seals:
Windshield, side glass, and rear glass replacement, seal servicing.
Routine Maintenance:
Lubrication charts, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, tire pressure.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common operating problems and performance issues.
Component Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major components.
Adjustment:
Carburetor, ignition timing, brakes, clutch, and steering adjustments.
Installation:
Guidance on installing new or replacement parts, including body glass.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Interpreting wiring diagrams, testing circuits, identifying faults.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive and in-depth, suitable for professional mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Type:
L-Head Inline Six-Cylinder (Hudson 'Super Six' engine)
Displacement:
Approximately 231.5 cubic inches (3.8 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
Approximately 3.125 inches x 4.5 inches (79.4 mm x 114.3 mm)
Horsepower Rating:
Approx. 55-65 bhp (at 2,000-2,400 RPM, depending on specific tuning and output)
Torque Rating:
Estimated 150-170 lb-ft (at 1,000-1,200 RPM)
Carburetor:
Single-barrel updraft carburetor, likely a Marvel-Schebler or similar make.
Fuel Type:
Gasoline (Note: early gasoline had lower octane ratings than modern fuels)
Type:
Battery and Coil Ignition with mechanical breaker points and centrifugal/vacuum advance.
System:
Splash and pressure lubrication system. Oil pump delivers oil to main bearings; dippers on connecting rods lubricate other engine parts.
Type:
Water cooling with a thermostat and a belt-driven fan.
Type:
3-speed Selective Sliding Gear Manual Transmission
Gear Selection:
Hand-operated gear shift lever, typically column mounted or floor mounted.
Type:
Dry Single-Plate Clutch, operated by foot pedal.
Gear Oil:
Likely SAE 60 or SAE 90 Gear Oil (Manual will specify).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 113 inches (2,870 mm)
Overall Length:
Varies by body style, typically around 160-170 inches (4,064-4,318 mm)
Track Width:
Approx. 56 inches (1,422 mm) front and rear
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,600 - 3,000 lbs (1,179 - 1,361 kg), depending on body style.
Crash Test Data:
No formal crash test ratings exist for this era of vehicle. Safety features were rudimentary.
Braking System:
Four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, and brake lights as per regulations of the time.
Body Construction:
Steel body and frame construction, offering basic structural protection.
Oil Change:
Every 1,000 - 1,500 miles or seasonally. Crankcase capacity typically 5-6 quarts.
Grease Points:
Weekly or bi-weekly for chassis lubrication points (spring shackles, steering linkage, etc.).
Valve Adjustment:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles, or as indicated by engine noise.
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W or SAE 30 (depending on ambient temperature, manual will detail specific recommendations).
Coolant:
Water with possible anti-freeze additives in colder climates (early types like glycerin or methanol were used).
Brake Fluid:
Mineral oil-based hydraulic fluid or early Castor oil-based fluids (as specified by manual for original systems).
Engine Wear:
Wear in main and rod bearings, piston rings due to age and mileage. Oil consumption.
Carburetor Issues:
Gumming of fuel passages, float level inconsistencies leading to rough running.
Ignition System:
Worn breaker points, condenser failure, distributor shaft wear causing timing instability.
Brake Systems:
Seized wheel cylinders, worn brake linings, fluid leaks, adjustments needed for effective stopping.
Chassis Lubrication:
Neglected lubrication leads to rapid wear of kingpins, tie rod ends, and spring shackles.
Hudson Motor Car Company:
Founded in Detroit, Michigan in 1909, Hudson became known for producing robust and well-engineered automobiles.
Essex Introduction:
The Essex brand was launched by Hudson in 1919 as a more affordable line to compete with lower-priced makes. It was positioned below Hudson-branded cars.
1926 Updates:
The 1926 Essex models featured updated styling, improved comfort, and refinements to the Super Six engine. The 'Coach' body style was a popular closed-body option.
Production Years:
Essex produced from 1919 to 1932.
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit, Michigan, USA