What is the best way to tell if the vacuum canister is holding a vacuum ?

Not sure what you call the vacuum canister.

The vacuum is not constant, but moves the piston in and out. If you suspect you have a vacuum leak, you can listen to the area of the piston for noise.

Does your car shift easily or does it take strength to change gears?

I see a complete '39 Vacuum shift Unit on Ebay Motors . New in the Box ! Bid starting at $90.00...no one's biting..I've seen it there for the last six or more weeks...if your interested...in maybe just a spare...

That unit is specific to the 1939 and will not apply to the 1940-48.

[Does your car shift easily or does it take strength to change gears?]


The car shifts hard,The fitting on the top of the canister is loose where the hose goes on but I here no sound.

Oh...I'm sorry , I thought we were talking '39 Master Deluxe....

Perhaps pinch or plug ( disconnect )the vacuum line to see if shifting is the same ?

I think I was the one that got us off tract. The subject is 1939 and the unit mentioned is unique to your 39. If it sells for anything near the current bid price, that is good and would be a good investment.

If you manage to score the unit, it still needs to be disassembled and lubricated for reliable service.

Five days left on this auction , P.K.! I wish it was for a '40-'48...would've been gone weeks ago ! Noticed you said "loose hose" , that can't be good , can you clamp it ?

It's Not a a loose hose,Its the fitting that the hose goes on.
Anyway guys thanks for trying. I'll just have to remove it and check it out....

While you are tightening that loose fitting I would check that all vacuum connections are sealed tight. A little leak will cause lots of problems including poor engine performance.
Tony

Thanks Tony, I'll be checking everything while I'm under there.