Well, I thought I might get a few responses, but nothing, So I'm gonna pull the head off and see what I have to work with. If the motor is junk, I might look for some sort of transplant. I can't justify spending up to 2500 on an engine rebuild and a similar amount for an Ultramatic ( if it is junk too). Is there any way to tell if the Ultra is bad without having a running 8 in it. Really want to keep it all Packard, but 5-6 grand for drive train seems like a lot. Was supposed to be a 68,000 mile car, just in questionable storage.....Starting to wonder what has been done to it, if anything. All previous owners have passed away
.

Been taking stuff off my 51 Patrician so I can get it running.
Down to where I can see and reach everything. Been putting marvel in it every chance I get. Did a compression check on it today: 90,30,20,20 30,20,20, 45. Not too encouraging. Took manifolds off - lots of marvel ran out. My take on it is stuck valves? Started to take side covers off, but no one else around to spin engine so I can see what's moving or not.

Worst case scenario? Next step. This car needs EVERYTHING. Wondering whether to cut my losses and button it up and move on. Any advice would be welcome.

On a side note. as i was cleaning up the block, I found a broken ring on the oil pan flange - outside the engine. also not a good harbinger.....Engine is still intact - head still on.

Ok, classify me as a moron, but I'll be darned if I can fin anything on those material cards for a 51 Patrician...I must be blinded by the fact my car will need a lot more before upholstery, LOL

Where on the site are these swatches?

Just my 2 cents worth...
I have always loved 55 Packards. I've always wanted one. That's what I was looking for when I stumbled upon my 51 Patrician. While I am happy I am a Packard owner, the 51 is not a 55. Kinda jealous of you 55 owners, lol. Ahhhh.....still optimistic.....someday a 55 Packard will land in my lap. Simply gorgeous cars.

Hey guys (and gals)

Considering replacing the seats in my Packard with something else - maybe newer, power, more comfortable. (I realize that is is sacrilege to some, and I won't do anything that can't be undone - however girlfriend wants to see some progress and not a lot of $$$ going into this project - yet :))

Anyone used something update without a lot of fuss? I like Caddy seats or Lincoln seats if I can find some that aren't embossed with the logos.

My car is a 51 Patrician with virtually no interior left. I have the original seats, but I don't think seat covers is gonna do anything at this point. Can get some sedan seats at a local yard for $100. Maybe Crown Vic or Marquis? Any thoughts?

(no, I won't toss the old seats, no I won't sell 'em, lol)

Absolutely fantastic, Kevin. I have been following your trek since the beginning. Your hard work and perseverance is going to pay off big time. You are such an inspiration to all of us. Bravo, well done, and keep the pics coming!!!

Thanks for all of the support and suggestions. Looks like the first order of business is to drain oil and remove the oil pan. The car was 'supposedly' running within the last 5 years, however it was last tagged in 1993, so I suspect much longer than the 5 years. It turns over fairly easily by hand. With as much Marvel as I have dumped down the plug holes in the past year, the oil needs to be changed at the very least, and I would like to see what's in the pan, good or bad. The advice about the oil pickup screen is well taken, and I hadn't even thought of packing the oil pump. Great advice!

Packard guys in my area are far and few between. When I mention that I bought an old Packard to tinker with, they ask the year and series.... and then look at me and say "They didn't make Packard computers that early did they?" Sigh...... It's great to get help from people you haven't ever met. Love this website!

RE: The one in Redding. I had to look twice when I saw it. Almost thought someone had backed up to mine and swiped it! Then as I realized that the car in Redding has an interior, I calmed down,LOL.

I keep putting Marvel down the plug holes, turn it over a few times, and repeat. I am assuming it has stuck valves, but hoping maybe the Marvel will eventually loosen something up.

I got it to turn over with a 12V battery, but am concerned that the solenoid won't tolerate it much. The starter motor is stout enough, but I'm leery of toasting the solenoid - it's the old 'square" Autolite type - not cheap to replace I guess.

Anyways, I tinker with it every other weekend or so for a few hours. Not going to really be able to do anything till summer. Stored under a tarp, outside. Staying dry inside so far.

I've got the seats and carpets out, floors cleaned, ground down, treated and painted. Still pretty solid old girl. Minor rust in driver's floor and a spot under the door sill.

The plan is to get the 327 Thunderbolt running and worry about peripherals once that is achieved. If the engine is toast, then I may have to consider other options. Those bridges crossed when they appear.

Dave, fantastic Idea!!!!!