Re: Engine wanted for a '35

Posted by Jim On 2008/10/16 22:54:51

O_D
I have a box full of 320 bearings that suffered from bearing / shell separation. I suppose this could be a strange coincidence, as I am only going on what I have personally experienced, seen, and been lead to believe by some extremely reputable Packard experts pertaining strictly to the late 320 engines. I have no knowledge of 385, 12 (or early babbited 320) bearing life, as they are different engines utilizing different parts and in no way could speak to their life expectancy. It seems odd that there was a running change in bearing material for the 320 bearing. I suppose it could have been coincidence, or maybe it was changed for a reason, for instance issues with longevity. One thing is for sure, Packard utilized bearing (flanged rod bearings) and rod (bolts integral with rod) designs in this period that were never to be used in the auto industry again that I am aware of.

The funny thing is, my long departed good friend that worked for ECA Los Angeles never ever mentioned any such failures occurring in late 320 engines during the time period when he worked for ECA. On the other hand, the founder of Packards International was gracious enough to talk about his experience in the 60's with numerous 320 bearing failures. Again, not 385 or 12, but 320. He had a fix utilizing a modern design easily obtainable bearing.

I do not doubt what your experience, and as stated earlier my late ECA employee friend (more accurately what he didn't say) or others with late 320's having no bearing failures. However, having first hand experience, and than receiving guidance from reputable Packard experts, a box full of failed bearings and most recently another friend with a 38 320 with flaking bearing material, I would be a bit prone to believe there is a perceptible trend of some kind.

Funny thing is, the bearings that are currently in process of being reproduced and made available in limited quantity are a direct result of this type of failure in that '38 320 engine mentioned above. I am confident that the run of reproduced bearings will be available in the near future. These guys are very capable long term Packard enthusiast. They have successfully reproduced and made available other high quality components.

Again, great discussion. At the end of the day, who knows what the real deal is. I am glad to have received the expert guidance I received about using modern proven bearings. I am also equally glad that quality original equipment style bearings will be available soon. I certainly would have liked to have had the choice when hunkering down and making the best of the situation I was in a while back. It is always good to have options.