Packard Forum Index » Modification Discussion

I would get a 38-47 block and not bother with trying to make a 237 a 245. Plus, the later engines have better oiling. Just a thought...

(o[]o)

A good thought, but I have the '37 block and it would go back in a '37 if I can get my hands on it. All bench racing for now, but the plan in my head is overbore, deck the block and head to bump compression, custom intake manifold and exhaust header and dual carbs. I would also port and polish the best I could, but I understand that the flathead is limited. That is all work I can do. If the project comes to fruition, I may look into a period correct supercharger and or a custom cam.

Again, this is all dreaming for now, but someday I would like to find a 1085 sport coupe, spice up the engine a little and add an overdrive. Something comfortable to drive in, including down the highway, but all Packard. I would also add seatbelts and a dual master cylinder for safety.

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Yes, no offense taken, but everyone had already agreed the potential horsepower increases from boring the old six were not large, just that they are real. I actually did the math and it comes to 3.5 additional horsepower from the increased displacement and compression.

We all learn from these discussions; so please share with us those better ways you'd recommend to increase horsepower on a flathead.

jack vines

If the time comes I have a 36 inline 8 block that I believe is .060 over already and has pistons in .060. Pins need help. Will need a honing I think. Some valves in it as well... look new. Block needs cleaning from sitting. Remove studs to deck. Head is not HC, but has been decked. Cam is there as well. No rods.... in my 37 already. Have my old 37 rods... one is out of spec. Have my old 37 crank.... needs to be turned to .030.

Hmm... That would be pretty hot rod to stuff an 8 cylinder, even just a 282, into a 115 chassis! Thanks! I'll keep it in mind...

Ken,

Think you got it right when saying "stuff an 8 cylinder, even just a 282, into a 115 chassis". Although probably "doable", the extra length of the 8, about 6"+, oil pan interference problems with the front crossmember and relocating a radiator way forward make it difficult at best.

Oh, I didn't say I would do it! I have spent enough time now, even with my limited experience, under the bonnet of a '37 115 and a '37 120 to know how hard it would be! Fun to think about nonetheless, especially since I don't have the 1085 yet.

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Ken, understand that a block in the garage is worth more than... Neat dream. Still, the cost of machining you block would probably be more than a good later short block. Years ago I saw a pre-war six with three carbs. The hood panel had to be modified for the rear carb. Never heard it run, but it was a nice looking setup.

(o[]o)

Sadly, I think you're limited on speed parts for the Packards and scarcer for the 6. There's a whole industry/cult following in the "Henry" flatheads and many parts available. Shops that specialize, etc. I know of none remaining for Packards, and haven't seen any parts for sale in some time, but I don't actively hunt them, so may not know all the hoarders. West coast is a start.
Access to a dyno is probably the best way to eek out a few untapped ponies.
But if I was trying to up it substantially, I'd add some boost but looks like a ground up activity. Too much and you'll sling some flat steel. I doubt the valves would hold up to the bottle either. If you're successful, then you get into other drive train issues of holding and transmitting the power. This isn't a S or B BC where parts is parts. You'd probably want to get rid of any 6 V electrical and go electronic. More/better tuning and hotter spark.
Most of the 6 banger racers I've had contact with were OHV. Quite impressive. The V6s are even better.
You might find someone to carve you out a cam, maybe even a crank, or aluminum head, but again, the "one of" cost factor. A lot of things sound good as ideas until you probe under the surface. The difference is those that dream and those that commit and do. There's always someone out there, if you want to open your wallet, but make sure they know what they're doing. Do overs are twice expensive.