Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

I guess it wasn't dusty back in '54. After all, the dust bowl was over.

Not only does my '54 lack an oil filter, it also has nothing but a coarse screen for an air "filter." Now I'll be looking for a will-fit paper element if there is one in the right size. This is not an "oil bath" filter, it's just a big canister... for passing the dust through, I suppose.

Guy - A modern pleated paper air filter element will be more efficient than the mesh filter. Just take the measurements of the mesh filter and match up one from your local parts store. It may involve opening many boxes, but you should be able to find one. Save the original mesh filter in case you want to be authentic for a show or for the next owner. Or, you could try and find an oil bath filter.

(o{}o)

Thanks JW, that's pretty much what I'd planned. Maybe some genius put the id, od and height measurements in a parts book, otherwise it's like you said-- start opening boxes that look about right. Have to find a patient, friendly parts person.

Luckily, the filter canister itself looks very straightforward and should accept just about any filter that fits and isn't too tall to get the wingnut started. I like the side screw and clamp setup for attaching the whole unit to the air horn.

I prefer the paper filter to the oil bath, and the K&N type to either. Maybe there's a K&N out there that will fit. That would be cool.

You might start with a Purolator A30057 it fits my 47 Packard. I am surprised JW did not mention it since he is the inventor

I put a k&n in my 55 breather. Took some time to find the right size.

Do not claim to be the originator of this idea, but have modern pleated paper air filters on all my Packards (37 Six, 47 Custom and 55 Super). Puralator A30052 on the 37 Six and as mentioned, an A30057 on the 47 Custom. Forget the number I used on the 55 Super, but it was an Edelbrock. These were replacements for the filter elements that fit the oil bath types, don't know about the dry mesh type that you have. Just find a friendly counter person and start sorting through the shelves. Please post the make and number of the one you found for others here. Thanks.

(o{}o)