Engine "Freshen Up" Questions???

Posted by Packard 1948 On 2015/3/25 1:44:41

I am working on my dad's engine and it certainly needs a valve job because the exhaust valves are burned.

While the engine is apart we are hoping to also do a re-hone of the cylinders and a re-ring of the pistons.

Since I am "Planning for the worse and hoping for the best" it is good to come up with some contingency plans...just in case.

If there is excessive wear in the cylinders we will need to go a .010/ .030 overbore and new pistons.

Are new camshafts available? Hopefully it will not need it but we are holding our breath until the inspection. What IF the cam is worn? Is there a source for a new cam? It does have solid lifters. I noticed some Packard engines of this vintage have hydraulic lifters so the question is ...is it possible to convert to hydraulic lifters? Other than the lack of need to adjust the lifters is there a major advantage to hydraulic lifters?

Do these engines have a timing chain or timing gears? If the it has gears then my assumption is that IF the gears do not look worn then no need to replace it. If it is a timing chain then that would have to get replaced.

What is the most reliable source for internal engine components? I am NOT a big fan of Kanter as I have had bad luck with other make cars and their products.

Any suggestions on what to do/ look for during this "Engine Freshen Up" would be greatly appreciated!!!

THANKS!!!

Bill