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

My car currently has a 13lb radiator cap on it, but I think factory was 7lbs, is that correct? I get that the higher pressure cap raises the boiling point, but if over heating isn't an issue should I be running a 7lb cap on my 53 Cavalier? What does everyone else run?

I think the 13lb cap was an option for cars in hotter climates.

Correction, 12lb Cap.

Thanks BK! This is just what I was needing! I'll leave mine with the 13 lb cap, standard on all 2600 models.

When in doubt, look at the Factory Service Index!

I looked through the cooling section of the service manual, but didn't look at the specifications section.

Cooling and Electrical sections especially, a lot of basic technical info is found in Specifications instead of written into the article. 😕

I have looked for a higher pressure cap than a 7 lb in the past without success. Does anyone know of a currently available cap?

Amazon

O'Reilly.

I am also looking for a 12 or 13 lb pressure cap. My 1953 has a 1" deep filler neck, not the standard 3/4" that most other vehicle brands seem to have used.
Does anyone have a 13 lb. cap cross-reference number that will work for this 1" depth? (Or a good used cap to sell?)
I can find 13 lb/3/4" depth caps, and 7 lb/1" depth caps, but not the 13 lb/1" variety.
I believe the numbers listed in the Packard cross-reference list are for 3/4" depth. (Did Packard use both 3/4" and 1" deep radiator necks from 51-54? Both radiators I have are 1" deep).
Many thanks for the assistance, as always.