Historical Significance:
Hudson was a major American automotive manufacturer known for quality and performance. The Essex was positioned as a more affordable line, offering excellent value.
Competitors 1926:
Ford Model A, Chevrolet Series AA Capitol, Dodge Series 116, Plymouth Model Q
Vehicle Advantages:
Robust engineering, comfortable ride for its era, reliable performance, attractive styling
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving costs and maintaining the vehicle's originality and value.
Accessibility:
Digital format allows for quick access and searching of critical information.
Primary Coverage:
Hudson Essex 1926
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Repair, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
Varies significantly based on original factory publication, likely 200-500+ pages for a comprehensive factory manual.
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine:
Engine overhaul, component inspection, carburetor service, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly/assembly, lubrication
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, rear axle assembly, lubrication
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, steering linkage
Brakes:
Mechanical brake system (rod-actuated), adjustment, component service
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting system, charging system (generator/battery), horn
Bodywork:
Chassis lubrication, body adjustments, door mechanisms, hood latches
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (mechanical), carburetor
Maintenance:
Lubrication schedules, tune-up procedures, fluid checks and changes
Repair:
Component replacement, engine rebuild, gearbox repair, axle overhaul
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom analysis
Adjustments:
Carburetor, ignition timing, brake adjustments, valve lash
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of most major components. Suitable for experienced mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts.
Readability:
Requires Adobe PDF Reader
Compatibility:
Compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems
Compression:
May require WinZip or similar utility for extraction
Digital Quality:
High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory documentation
Binding Format:
Digital download (not a physical book)
Paper Equivalent:
N/A (digital format)
Engine Type:
L-Head Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement Cu In:
173.7
Horsepower Bhp:
Approximately 40-50 HP at 2000 RPM
Torque Lb Ft:
Estimated 90-100 lb-ft
Carburetor:
Single-barrel, downdraft (e.g., Stromberg, Marvel-Schebler variations)
Ignition Type:
Battery and Coil, Distributor
Oil Capacity Qt:
Approximately 5-6 quarts (US)
Cooling Type:
Water Cooled, Thermosiphon or early mechanical pump
Wheelbase In:
Approximately 108 inches
Overall Length In:
Varies by body style, typically 150-160 inches
Curb Weight Lbs:
Approximately 2200-2500 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:
N/A specified for this era, implied by chassis strength
Crash Test Ratings:
Not applicable for this era; safety standards were rudimentary.
Braking System:
Mechanical Drum Brakes on all four wheels (actuated via rods and cables), Mechanical Parking Brake
Steering:
Worm and sector steering gear
Body Construction:
Body-on-frame construction with robust steel chassis
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, brake lights (often integrated with taillights), side marker lights (optional/late addition)
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Historically, every 500-1000 miles or as recommended in the manual. Modern synthetic oils may allow longer intervals, but original specs should be followed.
Grease Points Interval Miles:
Weekly or every 100-200 miles for chassis lubrication points.
Tune Up Frequency:
Typically every 5,000-10,000 miles, but older vehicles may require more frequent adjustments.
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
SAE 20W or 30 (straight weight oil recommended for this era)
Coolant Type:
Water, with rust inhibitors if available. Antifreeze suitable for older engines.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Gear Oil SAE 90
Rear Axle Fluid Type:
Gear Oil SAE 90 or 140 depending on temperature
Brake Fluid Type:
N/A - Mechanical brakes do not use hydraulic fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Ignition points, condenser, spark plugs, carburetor jets, clutch lining, brake rod linkages, kingpins and bushings
Restoration Considerations:
Potential for worn engine bearings, gasket leaks, chassis rust, and electrical component deterioration due to age.
Hudson History:
Founded in 1909, Hudson Motor Car Company was a significant American automaker, known for its 'Torque tube' drive and innovative designs. Merged with Nash to form AMC in 1954.
Essex Lineage:
The Essex was introduced in 1922 as a more affordable companion to the Hudson Super Six. It quickly became one of the best-selling cars in America due to its reliability and value.
1926 Updates:
The 1926 model saw continued refinement, including aesthetic updates, improved engine performance, and enhancements to comfort and convenience features compared to earlier models.
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit, Michigan, USA
Production Years:
1922-1932 (Essex brand)
