Re: Dual intake for thunderbolt

Posted by Anthony Pallett On 2013/4/2 0:33:38

Touchy subject this one. Ill this depends on how far you want to go. The early 4bbl carbs are in the area of 300cfm a new Stromburg carb (the 3 bolt 97 reproduction ones)are according to the Stromburg site 165cfm so 165+165=330cfm so it would only be 30cfm more flow over the stock style 4bbl carb not enough to really feel in the seat of the pants (not saying bigger is always better). With a custom aluminum intake you will be shedding a decent amount of weight off the engine the cast iron intake is quite heavy that will help slightly with acceleration but again would you be able to tell? probably not. With modifying the L8 Packard engines you have to go back to basics in your tactics. Custom grind cam port work 288 head swap (for higher compression) 288 rods (longer so better rod stroke ratio doesn't help much at the RPM these things run at but anything helps)pistons to match the longer rod electronic ignition a well thought out intake setup and good breathing exhaust. If you can compare a Ford V8 flathead to the Packard look at the power gains they get with similar tricks. 80-100hp stock on a V8 Ford to 230-250ish with a decently hot one. If memory serves the 327 Packard puts out around 180hp so 200hp would be easily attainable possibly more if you spend time tuning it in. If you are going for max performance its going to cost if you just want something unique for the car show you can do anything you want.