Re: New Guy Introduction.

Posted by BH On 2008/8/24 10:07:52

Black valve covers with cream-colored Packard script would be correct only on a V8 engine as used in a '55 Packard, but that block would have been painted ivory (a shade that some may interpret as "cream").

The 374cid V8 was used one year only (1956) and only in the Patrician, Four Hundred and Caribbean models; Clippers and Executives were a whole 'nuther matter. The 374 block was painted bronze, but the valve covers were painted silver (I'd use an Argent Silver), with red Packard script. Some illustrations of that engine show an optional chrome-plated valve cover with red script.

Yes, there's some debate as to whether the Packard script on all chrome-plated valve covers (used 1955-56) were painted in red or left plain, but every unrestored '56 Carib that I've seen has at least some trace of red paint.

However, after so many years, paint color may not be the best indicator of engine type.

To be sure what engine you have, you should look for the 8-digit vehicle serial number stamped on the engine. On my Packards , all of which are '56 examples, that number has been just ahead of the valley pan cover, near the oil fill tube. Unfortunately, an engine will only carry a vehicle number if it was installed as part of vehicle production - not applicable to service replacement blocks. However, ALL engines have their own serial number, stamped at the Utica plant, which has an alpha prefix.

Give us these numbers and we'll be able to tell you what it was intended for.