Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

We have a Third Series Six Sedan.
The rod bearing babbit is very thin and needs to be replaced before it disintegrates and damages the crank.

Does anyone out there know of a modern bearing replacement, or do I have to have new babbit poured?

This engine was used in other Series, so I hope someone out there has some good words for me.....

I strongly recommend you stay with babbitt. Paul's Rod & Bearing did my babbitt work for my Packard and also more recently a set for an early Pierce-Arrow I worked on. That was a few years ago and they had a superb reputation for babbitt work then and I've heard nothing in the ensuing time to suggest it's any different today. If your crank journals are in good shape, just send him the rods and the crank pin dimensions.

parkville.info/pauls/

Dear bujak:

According to Packard crankshafts of the 6th series and earlier were not suitable for insert bearing conversion.

Thus, you should stick with babbitted rod bearings.

Many thanks for the prompt responses...
Our LeBaron has the modern Mopar slant 6 bearing (but the rods had to be built-up to accommodate for the thrust size)
...didn't know of the SIX had any 'upgrades'.

Bob

Dear Bob:

Thank you for the note on the Plymouth rod bearings. I used to tell people about that option, but nobody believed me.

One thing about the Packard notes on the crankshaft. If the crankshaft is removed and resurfaced I don't see any reason why inserts can't be then used. Packard stated that, beginning with the 7th series, the journals were using an updated hardening process.

Quote:

He stated his car is a third series. Can inserts be used on those as well?

Cheers,

Tom