Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Hello Packardinfo

Its been a while since i’ve been on the forum.
However I am currently trying to revive my 1956 Patrician project car.

I recently had the core plug on the drivers side above the starter rust through. I have since removed it and attempted to flush the block as much as possible while that one is out. The mating surface actually looks pretty good. Doesn't appear to be pitted and should clean up nicely.

First question would be, is it feasible to replace the other five with the engine in the car? Im basically working in a gravel driveway.

I do see two appear to be behind the motor mounts.

The other question is I purchased new plugs from one of the big names back east and was sent 1-3/4” plugs. Will these be acceptable? Or is .015” a big difference as far as them sealing is concerned. I read somewhere they are originally 1-49/64”?

Oh and as an after thought are there only the six plugs?

Attached are the rotten plug, and the current state of the car.

Thanks for any help you all can provide.

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I use 1-3/4 no problem. Stainless.

If the block surface is perfect, the 1-3/4" will usually seal.

However, since the correct 1-49/64" are still available, why not use those?

jack vines

I got some of the correct size on order today. No one had them in stock locally. I was surprised that the ones sent to me were 1-3/4”. I figured one of the big Packard parts dealers would have sent the correct size to begin with at the price they were asking. Oh well it is what it is.

Thanks for the replies Riki & Jack

We have been supplying the 1 3/4 freeze out plugs in our engine kits as well as individually for nearly 40 years with no ill affects. On occasion we may have a customer that has issues but this in many cases is in part to heavy corrosion or pitting at the blocks surface area. In those cases when we are notified we work with the customer and supply them with a larger freeze out plug if need be to remedy the situation.

Thanks
James From
Kanter Auto Products

Thanks for the reply James, thats good to know. I have never replaced a core plug before and wasn't sure how sensitive the tolerances were. I don't think the 1-3/4” would have been an issue on the one I replaced but I would say the surface was good not perfect. So I went with the 1-49/64”. Now I just have to decide If I’m going to try and tackle the others.

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Glad to hear that you got the one in and your leak resolved. If you still have the front clip off I would definitely consider doing the others. Based on the fact of ease of access. I know I have gambled in the past and it has come back to bite me. When in doubt change in out when it come to block plugs.

Thanks
James From
Kanter Auto Products

I agree with James. If one rusted through, the others aren't far behind. I used brass when it was available and put Permatex on the sealing surfaces.