I am having trouble getting the timing to fall into specs on my '38 Eight. I am sure that the procedure of using the light etc. is correct and that I'm shooting for the correct marks. When I turn the distributer I can only get to about TDC. I can retard the spark easily but that's it. The vacuum advance is working too as when I rev the engine the timing advances. The big issue is the advance diaphragm is hitting the oil filler tube when I try to advance the spark any more to get 7 degrees BTDC.

My thoughts are that when I rebuilt the engine many years ago, the oil pump was installed possibly incorrectly. Could the pump be off by a tooth where it meshes with the camshaft creating the timing issue? I understand the distributer can only go in two ways, correct and 180 off. Also I know about the witness mark going up or down for the Six or Eight.

The dwell/points are fine. The engine runs fairly well timed at TDC but I am still trying to get it in spec. I'm looking for advice, photos and help to solve this issue.

David

I noticed a small amount of white colored material on the back end of my exhaust manifold. Not sure what it is but here are the facts.

My first thinking is it is coolant that somehow made its way onto or near the hot manifold and has vaporized leaving the white powdery look. I did replace the back two studs last year and of course used sealant with the new studs. A pro mechanic helped me. Next, a few months ago I did notice a few, and I mean a small amount of coolant below the manifold on the side of the engine. Only found that when the engine had cooled down and looked at it the next day. Checked the area and couldn't establish where it was from. Did check carefully the head gasket and saw no issues. Yes a pressure check of the coolant system is next. There are no cooling issues with the engine or any obvious leaks including the heater hoses when it's hot or cold.
Any ideas as to what or where other than my ideas?

Thanks.

David

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In trying to button up the exhaust pipe flange joint, the one at the end of the manifold, I am having a tough time getting a good seal between the pipe and the manifold. Before I disassemble the two again, does anyone have any detailed photos that show what I am suppose to have at that joint? The car is a 1938 Eight 1601 Sedan with a totally stock exhaust system.

Thanks for the help.

DJ

Be there or be square... Wed. to Sun. Can't wait. Love lookin' at old cars.
David

I have a '38 Eight and just recently fixed or should say rebent those same side panels on my car. Those rolled bends were on my panels too. Pretty obvious on my car that a previous mechanic did not like to remove those panels when they were taking out the radiator. They were bent back to gain access to the radiator mounting bolts and brackets. Would like to know what the specific shape should be so let us know what you find out.

Regarding the fabric skirts, where do I get more details on the fabrication of those parts. Will surf this site but anxious to learn more about what I can use to replace that dried up leather like material...

Thanks.

Sorry for my ignorance but give me a little push in the right direction. I am not sure how to PM you and what else is necessary to get those per 1/2 filters. I am a fast learner though...

DJ

Regarding the water distribution tube, pay close attention to it's condition. They are brass for rust prevention but can self destruct and rot away. Be very careful pulling it out from behind the water pump. Mine came out of my 1938 Eight after many decades of hiding and was in perfect condition. Pretty good indicator of the coolant and water jacket's condition too.
Good luck.

My 1938 Eight has the factory oil filter too. It's an all original engine. A little time consuming to change the filter, those darn fittings are a challenge to get in the right position. The filter is a Purolator PER-1/2. Yes 1/2...
My question is where do I find these filter units. My last fall 2012 trip to Hershey did not prove successful in finding one. Only a few vendors even heard of the unit.

Thanks.

Hi guys...

Reasking a simple question regarding Hershey.

Is there a Packard Row like there was years ago? If so where is it? Have not been there for a decade but am off to PA this week. A little short on time so preplanning is necessary.

Also are there a few key vendors, both commercial and private that are hot spots for Packard stuff? Always looking for Packard parts and good deals.

Thanks and off to PA soon.

David

I am rebuilding the combo fuel/vacuum pump to my "38 Eight. Any tips or tricks on changing the vacuum-side diaphragm? Instructions say I need an arbor press to separate the two disks from the stem. Looks pretty straight forward but a little confidence building is needed. It appears that I have to slightly grind some of the stem that was mushroomed over. Any ideas? I assume the fuel pump side is very similar in it's rebuild...
Thanks.

David