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

Quote:

You are possibly confusing the 1948 and later 288 with the smaller 282 engine used up until 1947 which was shorter.

Mystery solved it is indeed a 288 with a 365 head. the block code looks correct for the 2392-5 for 1950. most likely the original motor that got a "new" head at some point.

That's unfortunate, as a 356 head on a 288 would lower the compression ratio pretty low, to the likes of 6:1 or less. The first thing I'd do is find another head for it, preferably one for a 288. It'll run a LOT better if you do!

Eric, What would be the difference between the heads? Both engines used 3.5" pistons and are rated at 7:1 compression. Is there a difference in the combustion chamber volume or the type of piston?

You tell me, here's a 327 head next to a '47 356 and '48 356 head. Looks like the combustion chamber is MUCH larger on the 356 engines as compared to the 327. The 288 is almost identical to the 327 head, chamberwise. Keep in mind that the heads are only one component of compression ratio, there's several things involved, it's the ratio between the cylinder volume above the piston at bottom dead center and the volume above the piston at top dead center. Changing the stroke changes the cylinder volume and therefore the compression ratio, considering the head volume stays the same between the two engines. That's why a 288 head on a 356 raises the compression ratio, and a 356 head on a 288 will lower the compression ratio.

Eric, Thanks. That explains it well!

Thanks for the info it makes sense.I drove the car today for the 1st time it seems to run just fine with plenty of power for my driving needs but I don't have a benchmark for comparison since my 327 super has not been run yet. anybody got a 288 head for sale?

I mayyy have, I won't be able to know for sure until next Monday, if that's ok with you.

that is fine, I am not in a hurry to take apart a running engine when I already have a 327 in pieces being neglected.
thanks
Eric

I have an extra 288 head that I recently took off a running engine. However it is quite heavy and would be expensive to ship. If you are close to San Diego you could take a look and buy it if you like it. Otherwise you should try to find one closer to your home. I will sell the head for $100 including a set of almost brand new spark plugs and a set of OK used ones.
Fred Puhn, National City, CA (619)475-1155