Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

Ian am trying to start 288 cu in standard 8. It has set more than 25 years|
New starter, generator, points, coil, fresh valve job, turns over but will not fire. Rebuilt distributed, new ignition wires. It has fuel, spark. But will not ignite at all. Timing seems correct. Any advice would be appreciated.
Mike Smith. 48 2293 Station Sedan

Assuming oil and filter cleaned and changed and gas is clean, I'd tackle the timing and be sure it is set correctly.

Know the position of your #1 cylinder and set up the distributor accordingly. When you crank it with the starter, note if the fan turns clockwise or counter clockwise and be sure the spark plug wires are in the correct distributor position following the firing order in CW or CCW.

If you removed the oil pump, be sure it was replaced in the correct orientation. It interfaces with the distributor. It can be 180 degrees off and make it very difficult to start.

If you have fuel and spark, have faith, it will start.

I would think a compression test is warranted as well.

This technique was recommended in the restoration class I took years ago.

Reviving a Sleeping Beauty

dodgepowerwagon.com/best/engstart.php

Good Morning...Since quite a bit has been updated/moved/changed, I would check to see if the rotor goes around when you crank the engine. I spent a rough morning once before I realized that the slot on the bottom of the distributor shaft was not engaged at the bottom. Uttered many bad words! Ernie in Arizona

G'day Packwagon,
to PackardInfo, and I invite you to include your '48 Standard Eight Station Sedan in the Packard Owner's Registry.

How do I check for correct oil pump orientation?

The procedure is covered in your Packard shop manual in the engine section. Don't have it in front of me now.. but it is in there. You didn't mention dropping the pan etc., which would have been a good idea. You also didn't talk about why you stopped running it 25 years ago and if you ever heard it run.

Hi Mike,
Lots of good advice is given here. You seemed to have done lots of work already to your Packard and one thing I have learned from this board, look for the simple things first.

With that, check the two wires on the carburetor, make sure the wire is in good shape and connected securely.

That's my 2 cents worth (and I'd ask for change back)

packardinfo.com/xoops/html/modules/newbb ... at&order=ASC&type=&mode=0&start=630

Check Post#640 and following.

And the bottom picture in #642