Re: 4.07 gear, need a 12 bolt vs 16...?

Posted by Highlander160 On 2015/4/2 11:42:46

Apparently there's a glitch in production on the new gears. Every date and request ends up getting pushed back. This is the info I got from 2 different Packard guys in need of a gear and several concur. I suppose it's normal to learn there are fewer 8 cylinder gears around vs Super 8 and 12. The 8 cylinder cars have just begun to come into wider desirability over the last 8-10 yrs. I've been a fan of the 8 over the other 2 since I became aware of Packard motorcars, and frankly I don't think there's a better driving senior Packard than 1101, 1201, etc. Perfect balance of power, weight and handling. My dear departed mother could steer an 8 with one hand. She was like 5'4" but I think she exaggerated that just a bit :D. Yes my fellow Packard enthusiasts, I know I'm preaching to the choir here.

In my talks with the owner I've been wondering about how much real change he could feel going to a 4.36 vs his 4.69. It's not as if we're looking for 65-70 MPH highway speeds. More like having that reserve of power so that you have 1 more pedal available to get you out of trouble. Right now she's working hard at 50. Geez, my Model A pickup likes that speed and we expect more from a Packard, right? Also, from my hot rod/street race days (did I say street race?), minor gear changes made a big difference. 3.90 to 4.30, 4.56 to 4.88, etc. I sort of think 4.69 to 4.36 might be just right. Am I too optimistic with that thought? All opinions and experiences welcome.