Re: Conversion of a ‘56 Ultramatic to a ‘55 400 & A Few Engine Rebuild Questions

Posted by Jack Vines On 2021/1/31 11:40:15

That's exactly what I wanted to do when I was your age, albiet more than fifty years ago. I'm finally able to build them.

As to ordering a kit from Egge (or Kanter, et al), be aware there are several key parts currently NLA.

If one wants Packard V8 horsepower, by far the most cost-effective place to start is with a 374" block and order custom pistons .125" oversize with modern thinner rings. We've got core blocks available.

Line hone and square deck the block; balance the rotating assembly.

We have a custom reground camshaft which will take advantage of the extra inches.

Absolutely necessary to remove the soft plugs at the ends of the rocker shafts and clean inside with a bore brush and solvent. Then, regrind the rocker tips. We have rebuilt units on the shelf.

Install removable valve guides in the heads and use positive valve stem seals.

Why a Holley carb? It will require an adapter to bolt to the Packard intake. The Edelbrock has the matching base bolt pattern and will be fine for your use.

Your build, your budget, your decisions. Let us know what we can do to help.

jack vines