Re: New to forum with a 1953 288 engine project

Posted by tractormike On 2015/4/4 11:56:00

Well after a winter break from the garage I started again on this project. After soaking the cylinders for a long time I did get it to break free and the crank to turn a little. Number 1 piston would only go up and down about 3/4 of an inch from top dead center and it would stick. I figured there may be some rust on the cylinder wall below the piston keeping it from moving. I tore it down and found just the slightest bit of surface rust on the cylinder but all the rings stuck on the piston. I removed all the pistons and most of the rings are stuck.
I took a ball hone to the cylinders and they look pretty good. There are a few very light scratches in the cylinders but not bad at all. I took the valves out and after getting the carbon wire wheeled off of them they all look good.
Today I talked to a guy who owns auto parts store who had heard this engine run 12 years ago and said it purred like a kitten and he always wondered where that old Packard engine ended up.
My plans now for the engine is to find a set of rings and a gasket set and put the old girl back together.
Do you guys have any recommendations as the best place to get these parts?
I can't wait to get it put back together and fire her up.