Re: Chevy into Packard

Posted by Mike On 2011/1/7 15:00:40

Also, i want to point out that just an engine and tranny swap won't reduce the sheer amount of fatigue you get from driving an older vehicle. They were never as easy and comfortable as new ones today, with muffled sound and ergonomics, and hours of comfort testing, etc.

You'll always feel beat at the end of the day driving an old vehicle with whatever engine and tranny you have in it. Even my 71 with A/C and power steering can be work to drive around all day since it's stick with a stiff clutch.

Lastly, i believe there should be NO ISSUE driving any 6 or 8 engine cross country that is decently maintained and in good condition, as long as it's not the poured babbitt type because who want's to put wear on that.

If i had more free time, i'd take a bet on it. I'd take the 50 Packard cross country no problem if the ultramatic rebuild came out 100%. If it was any stick tranny, for sure i'd jump on it. It'd be a blast, and i really don't forsee any but random issues like tires, etc.

The thing is, a lot of our cars aren't maintained like they were when they were drivers. We baby them and so we don't really stress them to the breaking point.