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I should have some hubcaps here for you, pm me your mailing address....

PM sent, thanks John

Missing hubcap has been replaced. Thanks Flackmaster.

I need to get a complete list figured out of things that are missing from the car.

John

Well today is a nice 60 degree day with plenty of sunshine. I'm going out to explore my '51 Packard this afternoon.
I wonder how depressed I'll be time I come back in this evening....

John

Well in for a break before supper. I removed the old rubber floor matting and jute under it. Good news all floors front and back are good. Surface rusted but solid. Yeah.
Bad news now. Blew out dirt around the spark plugs, loosened them a bit and blew them out again. Removed all 8. Have to admit 7 and 8 are a stretch to reach. Placed transmission in neutral (auto). Engine no turn by hand. Bummer. Sprayed a bunch of Blaster in each cylinder and reinstalled plugs. Let it sit for a while and see if anything happens. Bummer.....
Have some pictures to post after bit.

John

Hi PTV

You'll get lots of advice on freeing that engine, here's mine: fill them with Marvel Mystery Oil, let it work for a while before trying again. Have seen it work well. The 50/50 mix of acetone and automatic transmission fluid is also a good choice, all-around great home-made loosening oil.

Steve

I've heard of using acetone and AT fluid to break things loose. At least the generator and water pump turned when the belt slipped a bit.
John

Time for a few pictures:

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A few more pictures.....

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BTV, looks like you have a good car to start with. The 288 is a good engine, and very durable. You might want to try removing the side valve covers and squirt some PB blaster on the valve stems. It isn't uncommon for the straight 8's to lock up just due to a bit of rust on the valve stems or piston rings. Just give the solvent plenty of time to work, and don't get crazy with forcing the engine with pry bars or sledge hammers.

On the rear seats, you are lucky to have the original upholstery. Try to get lots of good photos for future use if you reupholster it. And save any pieces that have been hidden from the sun to color matching.

This is a great website for advice and info to restore you car. Have fun with it!