Re: 1940 Packard 1801 won't start

Posted by Kansasboy On 2017/1/6 13:14:48

Bob,
I think Fred K. is absolutely correct in that it far to early
to start major work. Earlier I mentioned the compression check, it is vital that the throttle be wide open during the test.Also,since there was a strong backfire it might be wise to remove the air cleaner and look down the throat of the carb to make sure the throttle plate is opening when the
test is run. It would be interesting to know the pressure in
each cylinder 1-6 or 1-8 the pattern of pressures might be a clue, for instance two very low pressures next to each other
might indicate a bad head gasket, this could be from a head
gasket that was not retightened after running a while.
I think HH56's idea of sticking valves also makes sense
I think I noticed the work was done about a year ago, has the car been sitting since then? Many times the better shape the
engine is the more likely the valves will stick, Packard had some problems with this even with new cars in storage.

It has also been mentioned many times that good connections and battery voltage are CRITICAL on a six volt system.
Are we sure the solenoid was the problem?
These engines were among the very best available.
Sorry to be so long winded but we all share a sincere desire to help you with your problem.
Jim