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

I have an old straight 8 thunderbolt engine with transmission that is working and I have no idea what the market for selling is like. I figured I would ask here instead of google.

Probably vary according to year, displacement and transmission.

If your not sure what motor it is, tell us the serial number and it will let us know.

Seems that most working engines for sale are in the $300-700 range, though if you have a rare engine (e.g. a 359) or one in particularly good condition obviously you might be able to get more.

I'll get back to you on that sometime tomorrow.

I believe that an engine with a manual and a (preferably) working overdrive is worth somewhat more than an engine with an Ultramatic or a non-overdrive manual, so that should be something you should investigate.

Pricing depends. How many years did it sit out in the weather? Does it show any signs of not being seized? Is it complete? Does it have unusual features?


I have yet to pay over $500 for one unless a car came with it.

There has been a "freshly rebuilt" 327 engine and transmission, cannot remember offhand whether it was an Ultramatic or not, with documented dyno runs and everything, advertised in the Packard Club newsletter for $12,000 for some time now, apparently no takers.

That's kind of surprising, because that would be great for the people restoring 1940-54 Packards that plan on taking them to the track.

Oh wait that's literally no one.

Actually, good practice to run on dyno or engine stand before re-installing a rebuilt old motor these days. That way you know it was done right before you install it and have to yank it back out for a leak or something worse. I see many posts about those that had post rebuild woes that did not. Cheap insurance.
I had my Cad motor dynoed after rebuild.
Something to think about.
$12K sounds excessive, even if perfect, unless there was a bunch of block work and still a stretch. That's more in the "12" category. It'd have to have all the accessories, ready to run, too. Caveat Emptor.
ps: There are past posts on this topic as well, so you can search for what is the trend (flat). It's getting to almost can't give them away, when you say flathead or P these days. Everyone wants thousands of HP or never heard of.