Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Jack Vines wrote:
What is your serial number? The red paint was commonly used on the '56 Studebaker Golden Hawk engines.

Yes, the pan has been repaired and no, the skid pan is a never-before-seen addition.

No, this isn't a Chevy - there is usually no problem with reinstalling the Packard exhaust manifolds. Did you break any studs when you removed the down pipes? The studs usually need replacing and that's a pain.

Yes, replace the core plugs.

Yes, pull the pan and the front timing cover. Verify your engine has the late cam retainer plate and spacer. Also verify which oil pump you have.

As far as what else to do, you're on a steep slippery slope.

1. New valve stem seals.
2. Pull the center main cap and check for signs of copper showing through on the bearing.


jack vines

Owen_Dyneto wrote:
Based on the oil pan, that engine has had lots of experiences; wonder what it would say if it could tell us?

For starters, drop the oil pan. Clean the oil pump intake screen. Pull at least a couple of main and rod bearing caps and check the bearing condition and clearances, and the crank journal condition (visual check). Pull the timing chain cover and check the condition of the timing chain and gears, replace the front seal. Sure, replacing the core plugs is a good idea.

If you haven't already done it, take a set of compression reading; first time dry, second time around after a couple of squirts of motor oil in each cylinder.

Remove both water jacket drain plugs and force-flush the cooking system.

Replace the water pump and fuel pump with rebuilt units.

Remove the valve covers and after a visual inspection, use a small and long cleaning rod and brush (such as one woulduse for a 22-caliber rifle) and clean both oil return drains from heads (at the rear) back down to the pan.

New motor mounts are available from Kanters, exact duplicate of originals and not expensive.

Let the ride decide wrote:
Something to think about.

The lower half of the flywheel cover. Does it have a small hole in it?

The 56's had a window and a cover plate. It makes draining the torque converter easier. Maybe worthwhile change.

The bottom cover on my 55 Patrician, was drilled out (I assume) enough to let you get a socket in there to drain the converter. I did not know it until I saw other 55's.