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Is there something wrong with the 1934 Packard engine?

Not at all - with some evolutionary changes it's essentially the same from 1929 thru 1939 - it's a fine engine, just not as simple to work on as the later engines based on the "120" monoblock design, so there are some things to be aware of. As to 1934 Packard Eights and Super Eights (and Twelves of course), they are delightful cars - as of next month I will have owned mine for a half-century with great experiences, I've driven it about 45,000 miles and only one breakdown (broken rear axle) during all those years.

David,

Do you mean Bill Cook who kept Jim Hollingsworth cars running? Bill passed away, lost a lot of good Packard knowledge.

OD & Flackmaster that is why I ask about earlier car issues, because we seem to keep loosing those who worked on them before us.

I understand the reason to discuss things in private, but it also limits the passing of theses "known" issues with certain engines or cars.

Nice conversation with Don today discussing the merits and drawbacks of a 1934 automobile. One lingering question for further discussion, comment from a mechanic that the top perimeter of the pistons was evidencing some chips around the edges - significant or par for the course with 70 year old cast pistons?
Also one other question due to lack of evidence, that being the headgasket was replaced because it was either "blown" or to repair a water leak....two completely different scenarios in my mind.

Comments please as Don has his checkbook out with pen in hand.

Oh, and paging Tom LaFerriere...comments on radiator and cooling system overhaul costs please.

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PM sent, I would very much like to talk with you, thanks!

Mike, I did mean Billy. I'm sorry to hear that he's gone. He was a great guy and a great mechanic.

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Dave,

Chips? I can see erosion, but chips would be evidence of larger problems. Overheating, maybe? Poor installation?

BTW, the only scenario that I know where a head gasket could allow coolant to leak is through the gasket getting blown out by compression, either because the head was not seated properly or the head/block surface has corroded. Either way the gasket is disrupted by compression. Other folks more knowledgable will hopefully contribute better information.

Cheers,

Tom