Re: Advice wanted on 1941 Packard 160

Posted by Tim Cole On 2012/9/22 10:28:13

Dear Casey:

It may have gotten stuck because something was living in it.

If you are really lucky you can let it soak for a couple of weeks and it will free up. Some old timers swear by Marvel Oil because it may have spearmint oil in it.

It's not a hard motor to get running again. You'll have to pull the cylinder head and see what's going on. Don't try to break it free. You can then soak the offending cylinders in penetrating oil and even carefully heat the rusty areas up with a torch. Then tap with a block of wood, or pull the oil pan and replace the rings.

Some people are not so lucky. I knew an old timer (Paul Lamb) who's 34 Packard got stuck because it had a cracked valve seat. He soaked it in diesel oil for months with no luck. It was a shame because it was a nice original car with a Senior CCCA badge on it.

I also handled a 55 Clipper that was a collision case. Somebody at the body shop started the motor to see if it would run. The condensation then seized it solid. I serviced two frozen cylinders and it ran fine ever after.

Good luck with your car.