If this has already been addressed in this forum, I apologize and ask that you direct me to the appropriate post.
Caveat: Purists will cringe.
I am at a crossroads with my 51 Patrician. The engine needs considerable work.I bought it as an non-running project. It needs everything. I have no idea why it was parked to begin with - over 20 years ago. I have no idea what condition the Ultramatic is in.

My inclination is to stick with the S8 and Ultra, but I guess I'm asking for other suggestions. I am considering an update to a more modern powerplant - NOT a SBC. More than likely a small-block MoPar - carbureted with a TF auto. I have read what articles I can find about various powerplants.

If I am going to go that far, I have considered changing the front suspension. I have friends who have converted other vehicles using Nova type, Volare type and Dakota pickup assemblies. Not, however, on a Packard.

Has anyone put a 'clip' on their 51 -54 Packard? and what did you use?

I am not looking to make this a show car. I want something different from the other guys that my wife can get in and drive, go on a cruise now and then and perhaps take on a moderate road trip.

Any helpful comments would be welcomed. And who knows, perhaps it'll be moot and I'll stick with original stuff. Wanting to weigh all options.

There is only one 1951 Patrician left in my driveway, ergo - it is rare. LOL

Heyyyyyy,
This gives me a great idea on how to modify my 51 Patrician.........

I think these cars in the original form are simply beautiful. That being said, I kinda like this modification. It would be interesting to find out more about it - who did it? When? Reminds me a bit of 57-58 dodge cars - "Oops, we forgot to put a fin on it", LOL

As with any written social media, you can't hear the tone of voice or see body language. Suffice it to say, we all have a common interest - Packards! We all want to see as many as possible saved and enjoyed! I really wanted a 55 Senior car, but settled for my 51 Patty. It's my first Packard. I've learned a lot from everyone on here. I've had plenty of other cars, mostly Chryslers, but always have wanted a Packard, Kaiser or Hudson (in that order).

My Patty is what I could afford at the time, and the wife likes it. I'm gonna do my best with what I can. It'll take me forever, but with help from this site, it'll be a lot easier! I've enjoyed every blog and post and look forward to the next each time I log on! Thanks to everyone, especially Big Kev!

How do I get hold of you?

If memory serves, a 10-15% difference in compression between highest and lowest cylinders is acceptable. That would be roughly 11-16 lbs. difference.

As I recall 110 -120 lbs is real good for one of these engines. 55-65 is pretty low....If you have ranges from 55 to 110, there may be an issue with valves, lifter adjustments or gasket issues. Cylinders 4, 7 &8 are suspect. I would imagine the compression would be low across the board if the rings were worn evenly. Have you adjusted the valves to specs? My first guess is poorly adjusted/perhaps burned valves?

my 2 cents...

I have had several other makes over the years, mostly post-war Chrysler products. My first choice would be a 1957 Chrysler 300-C. Second would be a car from my childhood - a Lilac 1966 Chrysler 300 two door hardtop. Third would be any Imperial, say 1951 through 1966, with a special spot for a 1960 LeBaron

The fastest I've gone with my 51 Patty is 45. It ran SO quiet, required no braking effort at all, cornering was a breeze and it used virtually no fuel. I seem to remember that it WAS chained down to a car trailer and was laboring a late model Suburban quite well

YES! I knew it!!! High five for me. I was explaining it to the wife during the show - I about came up off the couch - "That's the Packard plant!!!!" I yelled..... The wife calmly said "yes, Dear" - asked her if we had $22,000 to buy it. The answer was a very cold, resounding "No, Dear". Hey guys, I tried....