Re: 1952 Packard timing

Posted by Tim Cole On 2020/5/16 7:22:57

Check the dwell. It should be stable with increasing rpm. If it isn't the distributor is worn and can be generating a rogue spark.

The most likely culprit is carbon. Check the compression. If it too high the motor has a carbon problem. There are ways to clean combustion chambers without pulling the cylinder head. You can get over the counter advice from a decent auto parts store. I will reserve saying anything more given these methods are not fool proof.

A third possibility is the vibration damper is shifting with the motor running. This can be checked using a vacuum gauge. With the motor running advance the timing to the highest reading on the gauge then back off two inches HG on the gauge. Recheck the timing at this setting. If the timing marks are off significantly the damper is giving you a false timing setting.

When they are right the exhaust has a somewhat throaty sound to it.