Re: 1928 526 block removal

Posted by Tim Cole On 2012/12/22 12:58:49

I don't know the best way to assemble those motors because I have never seen a factory film. Although Packard did sell reconditioned blocks with pistons installed. I'll have to check the parts book for clues.

The service literature has always indicated rod from the bottom and piston from the top. I found this is readily accomplished with the motor standing up on a work bench. As well, a piston pin machined to a taper as a pilot to facilitate alignment. Another tip is to make up a paper bearing shell from tape to protect the crank from nicks. After turning the crank the paper shell is removed. This is especially critical as regards insert bearings which require pristine surfaces. After the rod is assembled the crank can be turned once and the cap removed to check for any marks which can then be removed using 2000 grit. Even slight jostling can cause a high spot. Sometimes these high spots are there just from moving the crank around during shipping and machining. And they bend very easily as well.

I would use a gantry crane for installation as an assembly to minimize damage. Either way, the process is not an easy one.