Hi Jim,
We enjoyed meeting you and Scott too. Glad things worked out for you and the other guy who wanted the engine. If I run across anything else I think you can use, I will give you a heads up. I just got the cross member out and your assessment was right; it was full of crud. I think that windstorm last night reeked havoc with our phones. Take care and hope to talk or visit with you soon. Best of luck!
Tommy

Thanks Tim,

I already removed the entire front end of the car. There are a lot of repairs that will need to be done. Since I am not on a time schedule, I don't mind spending the time to do it right, however my lack of knowledge on Packards really limits me. The front end of mine was hit at sometime in it's life so new inner panels and patch work will need to be done. Also although it came from California it must have been a beach bum as it has rust corrosion on places you will not expect. I do appreciate your input and that of others and am glad to hear from anyone.

Again much thanks!

Tommy

Hi guys, I am back after a short hiatus. I got the engine and trans. out of my 50 2 door and in the process of cleaning the engine compartment and frame up. I noticed that the transmission cross member seems to be bolted onto the frame. How much work is there in pulling it out and will it affect anything else. I have to admit, I learned a lot pulling the engine and trans. by myself. I didn't realize that the trans. would be that hard to get out. The tabs on the front yoke had me confused and I had assumed (I know what that means) that it was a pull out yoke and not with another U joint there. The bent over tabs also threw me for a loop. Anyway, no longer assuming anything, I would like some help on the tranny cross member. I won't make that mistake again: I am always doing that which I cannot do so maybe one day I will be able to do it!

Thanks to all,

Tommy

PV8,

You are a prince among gentlemen and I appreciate your views and comments and take them to heart. Thanks so much for the information!

Tommy

Flackmaster,

I understand your point of view also. The only thing I can say in defense is that I don't view value as some do. The projects I do are not for resale, they are deeds of accomplishment. I get their value every time I get the chance to drive them. True we should look down the road as some time in the future value may become a valid consideration, and I am at the age (my 60's) where it will come soon but for now, I want to drive and enjoy. I hope you understand. Value is in the heart and not necessarily always in our heads

Rusty,

I am not worried about finishing the project as I have time although not the required finances for a total restoration. I have waited for a Packard for too many years to let this go to the scrapper. I have the fortitude to complete the project however I do understand what you are saying. I have seen many guys start with wild ideas and end up with nothing. When I built my Model A boat tail speedster from the guys up I had guys say the same thing; you won't get it done. Today I really enjoy it, first of all because I built it and didn't pay someone to do it and secondly because the satisfaction of accomplishment. BUT I do agree Rusty, I have seen such projects as you have described and I appreciate your view point.
Tommy

Dear PV8, Fred or Ross or whomever,

I need to pick your brains again for more info. When setting the Cad motor in and replacing the straight 8: how critical is the location of mounting the V8 as far as dynamics go meaning engine weight, torque and other things I can presently think of. I know the steering box may present problems but my concern is the difference in the weight of the engines. When setting the front of the engine I understand I may have more clearance from the radiator or by moving it up I may have problems with the trans mount. I understand I can extend my driveshaft, however I feel it sure fit (in my feeble mind) more towards the middle to accomodate for the A/C or other componetry. How much will the weight difference make in the steering geometry? Please advise me as you guys seem to be gifted in the art of engine swapping theories.
Tommy

PackardV8

Thanks for the info. I am capable of doing my own body work welding, using the english wheel, forming dollies and paint. I have built 3 Model A including a boat tail speedster from the ground up but that's the extent of my knowledge. Model A's and body work is pretty simple and somehow the engine swap of the Packard has be a little intimidated since from my world my group of close buddies call them moderns. I know from experience somewhat about gear ratios and alignment but on a Model A that part is simple as there are not as many variables as the Packard. I understand that the engine and trans. must be mounted level but driveline alignment has me a little bewildered as of yet. As I stated, I am wanting a daily driver and be able to drive 65-70 with a low engine rpm. If I had my druthers and the finances I would not change out the engine, however I must live within my financial situation. Again thanks to all for all of your input. I am sure I will want to pick your brains for info again.
Tommy

Owen,
The reason for my doing the engine swap is due to finances.
I am not being sarcastic by any means but economics dictate what my options are.
Tommy

The reason I am using the Cad motor is that I do have one available from a buddy of mine which he wants very little for. He had quite a few of old Caddies and has one with only 73K miles on it and it runs quite well. He is practically giving me the car as it's a donor car and he has no more use for it. He also has the complete driveline with a 2.92 rear end. Basically he just used the interior. In researching the Cadillac 472 they are a trustworthy engine with low torque capabilities and good longevity. A lot of guys here in Az are SBC believers and they feel that is the only engine to run. I want mine to be different. Their argument is if you break down you can go to any parts store and get parts; which is true. My theory is a big block geared correctly will fulfill my needs as I am not interested in horsepower as I am a lower torque and rpm running engine rather than having to wind the engine at a high rpm. I want a car that I can drive comfortably at 65-70 and not have to do it at a high rpm. Am I mistaken in my thinking?
Tommy