Re: Swaping engines in my Clipper

Posted by Jack Vines On 2014/9/7 10:14:47

The Packard V8 uses a ball bearing in the end of the crankshaft for a manual transmission pilot.

This bearing is becoming rare and expensive. The last I bought were $25 each and going up each time. One guy with some NOS was asking $50.

While I do install hardened exhaust valve seats in all the Packard V8s I rebuild, they are only necessary if one is contemplating a lot of highway miles.

Most hobby Packards don't get enough continuous highway driving miles to require hardened exhaust seats.

Do check your valve spring retainers with a file. A '55 probably has the early soft retainers and a file will cut an edge easily. The later hardened retainers will cause a file to skate and not cut easily. The hard retainers are a must for any rebuild.

Your opinions and results may vary.

jack vines