Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

Dear fellow Packard owners,

Could you please share with me the oil filter numbers and names of some common manufacturers of the cartridge oil filter. Also, I came across an earlier thread about the best oil to use. The old manuals suggest 20 SAE or 20W. Suggestions? I just purchased the car and haven't yet run any tests on the 288 cid motor, which is the original. Thanks.

Guillermo
Oakland, CA

Welcome to the forum.

If it has the factory style canister on the side of the block a Napa 1080 or Wix 51080 should fit. The other parts stores should be able to cross one of those numbers to the brands they carry. Filters were an option at the time and there were many aftermarket filter setups available so if something else has been installed you will need to take the old one and see if a parts store can match it.

20 weight might be OK for the freezing east coast right now but sounds a bit low for our west coast climate. I would start with 30 and if the engine is worn it may even need a higher viscosity.

Others may have different opinions and experiences but just my opinion, If you do not know any history and what is in there now or how much sludge is built up I would try a non detergent oil for the first change. If there is any kind of lube sticker or paperwork saying it has had detergent oil then I would carry on with that. Suddenly introducing a cleaning agent into a heavily sludged engine can cause the crap to break away and clog an oil passage.

It has been suggested to remove the oil pan and clean it before starting a long sitting or unknown engine to be sure of the condition but that is somewhat of a process and others have not found it necessary. When you drain the oil you might be able to get an idea of how much sludge has built up by inserting a thick stiff wire or rod in the drain opening a few inches and see how much sticks to the wire or wants to drain out.

Thanks, for the reply Howard. I'll let you know how it goes.

-Guillermo

G'day Guillermo(GDurgin),
to PaxkardInfo and I invite you to include your '50 Deluxe Club Sedan in the Packard Owner's Registry.

Guillermo, I made some videos on removing the oil pan for a 47 which would be very close to yours.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8uyrBl3oq0I

Hope this helps!
Wes

Guillermo,
for including your '50 Deluxe Eight Club Sedan in the Packard Owner's Registry. Looking good!