Re: Is the packard V-8 a hemi?

Posted by Craig Hendrickson On 2011/9/5 1:48:25

I'd say that the "elliptic" shape refers to the open area at the plane of the intersection of the head with the block. A "hemi" combustion chamber refers to the shape of the combustion chamber (and valves) orthogonal (90-deg) from the intersection of the head with the block. A "hemi" combustion chamber is approximately round at the plane of the intersection of the head with the block.

A Packard V-8 has all intake and exhaust valves in the same plane that is tilted inboard with respect to the bore centerline. Hence, it is a "wedge". A "hemi" has the intake valves tilted toward the center of the engine and the exhaust valves tilted toward the outside of the engine.

Craig