Re: straight 8 engine

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2012/9/27 17:28:11

My complete support for Peter Packard's and Su8Overdrive's comments is based on almost 50 years and 45,000 miles of touring in my 34 Eight, 320 engine and 4.69 rear with 7:00 x 17 tires. I find 45-50 mph to be the "comfort zone" which is probably consistent with what most roads and highways of the time were built for. I've done a bit faster at times, but only for short intervals.

I consider the engine life I got to be very satisfactory, finally getting a slight rod knock at about 83,000 miles at which time I went for a full rebuild and stayed with babbitt bearings. A thorough valve job was done at about 45,000 miles and other than that, never an engine issue. Actually, only one breakdown in all those years and miles, a broken rear axle in 1999.

Frankly, there is something restful, you might even say therapeutic, about driving non-Interstates at these speeds which are consistent with the rest of the vehicles mechanical capabilities like brakes, lights, suspension and steering. These cars are absolutely delightful to drive, though the front beam axle can keep your reflexes sharp and alert on lousy pavement.