Re: valve setting

Posted by Peter Packard On 2007/11/13 4:24:25

Kris, The Engine number should be at the upper LH corner of the block, stamped onto a machined surface. The 288 on the head is not a conclusive engine capacity indicator, as the 288 and 327 shared the same block, but a 288 head has a smaller volumetric capacity ( 109cc verses about 120cc) and was a cheap way to get higher compression. After the Second World War Packard advised that 282 engines (also pre-war sixes) would not be supplied and that 288 engines should be fitted as replacement for 282 engines. There are a number of tech instructions for the fitment which required some firewall and gearbox mount mods. There were kits supplied but most people made up their own.
I fitted a 1954, 327 and R6 overdrive usng these instructions as a basis, although I must add that the R6 overdrive did not "slip" into the frame X member easily. My point is that the '37 with the 288 should not be frowned upon, as it was a Packard "sanctioned" fitment. Best regards Peter Toet