Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

This is a continuation of a post I did on 4/6/11. I'm still trying to determine just what engine I have in my Packard.

The car is a 1938 4-dr Touring Sedan, Model 1601, straight 8. The engine, I think, is a 288 which was built after 1948, whereas the engine that was original in 1938 was a 282. The head on my engine indicates it is a 288.

However, the engine number stamped on the side of the block is confusing: it shows a number of "M 41418 MN". The engine numbers usually have 6 digits. This one only has 5 digits. The serial number engine guide indicates the 1954 models having serial numbers that go from M 400000 to M 402638, and these numbers indicate the engine as being a 327.

I'm in the process of having the engine overhauled and I want to make sure I'm getting the correct parts for this engine. I don't know if I have a 288 or 327.

Is there some other source I can go to and verify my engine number?

You have a 288 head on a 327 block. Very common swap. Same thing in my car. For all practical purposes, you have a 327 motor.

For all practical purposes, the only differences between a 288 and 327 are the crank and connecting rods. Neither has to be replaced when rebuilding. You have hydraulic lifters

Originality aside, you have a great motor setup. The 327 is nice, the smaller head will give you a slight boost in power, and i believe the 48-54 series eights are more plentiful and parts more plentiful than the earlier motors. Just my 2 cents.

Interesting that a spare 645 engine I have here doesn't have any numbers stamped into the motor mount, just "star" cast into the ear, and no signs of numbers being ground off.