Re: OIL FILTER MYSTERY

Posted by Tim Cole On 2011/3/5 14:50:18

Hi All:

Needless to say the bypass filter is pretty much a joke. It was an accessory in most years except for 1955-56.

The main method of filtration in applicable motors is settlement. Dirt ingestion is avoided via the floating pickup.

As stated in the Packard Manual the most important filters for the motor are the Air Cleaner and Oil Filler cap. The primary cause of dirt being poorly serivced/contaminated Air Cleaners. Never sandblast these parts. Always store them in closed containers when off the vehicle. Given they reduce dirt ingestion to 40 microns do not take them to the local Hot Rod shop to be repainted and thus filled with dirt.

I have pictures from Packard showing the oil filter lines connected either way even in the same series.

I have done a lot of Packard services over the years and complaints about serivces times. However, nobody ever complained about oil filter leaks on any on the cars I serviced or about the service time.

I have found that the filter must be carefully torqued to 15-18 ft lbs using a gasket in good condition. Over tightening will cause leakage.

Beware: Many filters (including WIX) may have unsuitable gaskets and so do not destroy or remove the old gasket unless you have verified that the new unit is the proper fit and quality.

I don't plan to work on these cars forever and so in the future someone need not put up with complaints if I record this procedure here.

Good luck.