Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

When I bought my '56 Clipper, about 5 years ago, it did not have an oil filter. Attached is a picture of the engine compartment. I'm the second owner of the car, and I was told the car never had one because it was considered an "extra" when the car was originally purchased. Is there any truth to that?

Aside from that question, I'd like to install an oil filter. Can someone direct me to some "step-by-step" instructions for installing an oil filter canister, hoses, etc.? I would also appreciate help with locating an oil filter canister and filter to purchase.

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According to the 1956 Data Book and 1955-56 Parts Book, all models should have an oil filter, so don't know why your car would not have one.

Check with Mike Dulinski for a used one.

Mike Dulinski contact info

As you can clearly see in this photo of a 1956 Packard Executive engine -- similar to all engine configurations in 1956 -- the oil filter is visible to the right of the oil filler/cap in front of the carburator. I cannot imagine any engine in a modern (i.e. post 1930s) being offered without an oil filter. I would be curious to know what is in the spot of where the oil filter should be.

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According to the 56 Build Codeshttps://www.packardinfo.com/xoops/html/downloads/56th_Series_RPO_Codes.pdf the oil filter (code OF) was optional on all Clippers and standard on Packards. That seems to agree with the 56 Fact & Data Bookhttps://www.packardinfo.com/xoops/html/downloads/56_FactBook.pdf which shows the various models and what comes as standard on them. All the Packard models list an oil filter but none of the Clippers.

One of the two bolts that retains the filter housing to the driver's side cylinder head is the one that shows in your photo holding the battery ground cable. The other is adjacent to it. The filter feed is from the front of the cylinder head just below the filter, and the return line goes to a fitting near the oil filler tube. Take a close look and those locations should become apparent.

Looks like there is nothing in the space where the oil filter goes. Here is a photo of the oil filter installed on my 55 Clipper. 1956 Clippers should be the same. Mike Dulinski should have filter assembly for you.

(o{}o)

Photo was taken before the water pump and its manifold were installed.

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Worthless

Tim, I would not go so far as to say they are worthless. They do have some value in filtering the oil. Granted, not as effective as a full-flow type filter, but still do some filtering. It would seem that Packard with all of its engine building experience would have designed the new V-8 to have a full-flow oil filter.

(o{}o)

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Packard-Oil-Filter-Assembly-Tank-from-1956-Packard-Patrician-Executive-Clipper-/230927850295

here you go

At the risk of getting a bit off topic, what's the benefit for adding an oil filter?