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

I've just begun digging into a 1953 Cavalier with the original flathead 327 in it. I've got the air filter off of it, and I'm checking things off, but a clattering sound has started. I really don't have any experience with the straight-8, so I thought I'd post what it sounds like to see if anybody has a diagnostic opinion.

I'm guessing maybe a loose lifter, but who knows..

here it is:
twigzy.com/Voice_001.mp3

G'day turpentyne,
to PackardInfo but, like in this thread on the PAC Website, your audio file won't open for me.

And, I invite you to include your '53 Cavalier in the Packard Owner's Registry here on PackardInfo!

how strange.. I can open it, so I thought everyone else could.

I converted it to a .wav file and uploaded it here:soundcloud.com/user995994312/packardsound1

hopefully this works

That was quick, for including your '53 Cavalier Touring Sedan in the Registry.

Your new link now works for me, but I'll have to leave it for the more knowledgeable and experienced to offer comments.

Link worked for me. That is a terrible sounding engine. Broken exhaust manifold too?

(o{]o)

I can look closer, but I think the exhaust manifold is fine. The exhaust pipe itself is pretty banged up. I wonder if it's a little shaky at the attachment. Somebody on the other forum suggested possible exhaust leak as well.

I think the plan is to drop the pan, clean the oil pump, and maybe we'll get to the valve chamber and see if anything's sticking. It actually sounds better than my cellphone could record, it's just that damn rattle that doesn't sit right with me at all.

All in all, I was surprised by how quiet the straight 8 is as an engine in general.

Check the oil fill tube. If it is installed 180 degrees off the crank can hit it.

Otherwise it sounds like a double knock - wrist pin.

Ack! That's no fun. At that point, I'll probably have to just save a couple paychecks so I can rebuild the engine. I was hoping to avoid that for the short term.

I agree with Tim. Pull the oil filler tube out completely and see if the noise goes away. I managed to scare the heck out myself after starting the engine up after I had put it in backwards.

And for those playing at home, which way does that oil filler tube go (he says trying not to let on that he forgot to pay attention to that when pulling his own tube out of the engine)?