Re: BigKev's 1954 Packard Clipper Deluxe Sedan

Posted by Ross On 2010/4/22 6:18:44

Unless you want it for posterity, I wouldn't bother to recheck your compression. Those readings are already excellent; I agree, the engine has probably been "done".

As far as the stumble is concerned be sure you set your timing with the vacumn line disconnected and the engine idling under 600 rpm. Otherwise it can be way off (retarded) I usually do 7 degrees on those engines, but if it is a good starter, you can get away with 9. As Owen has said elsewhere, the final test will be pulling a hill in direct. By my calculation you are pulling 8.38 to one compression which is pretty tight for a cast iron head, so you may end up running 6 or 7 degrees on the road.

The other part of the stumble will be the carb. If there is one carb I've had consistent pains rebuilding it is the WGD. The 51 Kaiser, the 200 and the 56 Packup all have them and are prone to inadequate acclerator pump shot. Be sure all the play is out of linkage to the metering rod shaft, and that your check ball is well seated in the pump well. The oldtimers trick for that is to take a new ball and tap it in lightly with a punch, one tap, to remake the seat. Too hard and you won't get the ball out!