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good evening all, i have a question that a number of you may ask why. I have a 1939 super 8 and the engine has finally given out. I see a 1947 Super clipper 356 engine rebuilt on the club site for sale. Will this fit in my 1939 super 8? The reason is cost, to rebuild the old engine i have received some high cost estimates - the car is a good driver but is not a show car by any means. Thanks for your insight.

CJR

The 356 replaced the engine in your car and the Twelve in 1940. I tried to buy the engine this morning for my 1948 Custom 8 but it has been sold.

Best

John Harley

Hi Private Reserve

Packard had a program of factory replacement service engines for pre-war models, detailing how to fit 288 and 327 engines into those cars. Checking the Service Bulletins section should give you a good idea what is still readily possible. Since your '39 Super Eight is in driver condition, fitting a postwar 327 is a viable alternative to the considerable expense of rebuilding the 320. Good luck with your effort, please keep us apprised of your progress.

Steve

Will the longer block engines with 3-1/2 bores (288, 327, 356) actually fit into the available engine compartment space on a 1939 Super Eight? I would have thought NO as the '39 Super is based on the 120 which had the space to accommodate the 3-1/4" bore engine.

Hi Dave

I recall this question came up before, also that Packard issued Service Bulletins instructions for replacement of '39 Super Eight 320's with postwar 327 service engines. I didn't find the specific thread where its discussed with a quick search, though it should turn up.

Steve