Re: Kanter Bros 734 Speedster

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2008/9/25 13:07:32

Responding to Cli55er, if you've got the Kimes book you'll find a quite thorough discussion of the 734 Speedster series beginning on page 304, but let me paraphrase a bit of it for those that don't have it.

The Packard line in 1930 consisted of the 7=26 and 7=33 series of Eights (320 cubic inch engine) and the 7=40 and 7=45 series of DeLuxe Eights (385 ci engine). For the speedster series they selected the 7=33 frame (but called in a 7=34 to avoid confusion) and used the big DeLuxe Eight engine with lots of modifications. The block casting was different; the manifolds were bolted onto 45 degree faces (as in later standard engines) for larger ports and better breathing. The exhaust manifold was in a straight line rearwards (no heat box connection to the inlet) and finned; exhaust valve diameter was increased. The carburetor was a unique Detroit Lubrication dual throat updraft, a very rare item today, I believe a recent reproduction of them goes for about $5000. There was also a muffler cutout.

Standard compression ratio was 4.85/1 for 125 hp though a 6.0/1 was offered for 145 hp. The high compression head had metric plugs which is why many spark plug charts indicate two different plugs for 1930, causing occasional confusion among the less-informed. Standard factory-recommended rear axle ratio was 4/1 but a 3.3/1 was offered as well and generally found mostly in the open (lighter) bodies. Many Speedsters came with a factory-mounted tachometer. Transmission was the 4-speed which was carried on thru the very early 9th series cars. 1st gear is so low that many later buyers never realized it was there.

Bodies were about 3/4 inch narrower and considerably lower than the regular bodies and open cars had a lower windshield as well. All were marked "Custom Made by Packard". Although there were a very few 6th series Speedster on the 626 chassis, the Speedster line was discontinued after the 7th series. They were all expected to reach 100 mph.

I've had the pleasure years back of driving two different 7=34 Speedsters, both belonging to George Jepson, one of the founders and early presidents of the CCCA. He had both a phaeton and a boattail. Oh that I could have taken one on the open road but alas, I only got to drive them in a local parade or two.

As to the Kanter Bros., they are both quite active in the hobby; Dan had driven his 55 Caribbean to the last two Packard Nationals from NJ to South Bend and then Des Moines, has been on some of the club tours, and also is often found at local Packard Club picnics and shows. I believe they still have one of the 4 Panther Daytonas and quite a few others.