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

While doing some research over the weekend I found some interesting info on Suffix codes and what they mean for the 22nd and 23rd series cars.

Attach file:

---

  20230827_141039 (2).jpg (156.93 KB)

Interesting. I have CE after my engine number. I've been trying to figure out what that meant. Mystery solved.

I'm glad this helped. My engine code starts with H. Everyone keeps telling me that means I have Hydraulic lifters. Not so. All 23rd series engines started with H. The additional suffix codes are after the numbers. Just like all 22nd Series engines started with G, then the numbers, then any additional suffix codes. If I did have hydraulic lifters; at the end of the numbers there would be an (F). At least that's what my research shows.

The H suffix was apparently officially designated for use with 24th series engines coming from the factory with optional hydraulic lifers.

Cannot remember which year or specific subject covered but as I recall there is an article mentioning that the optional lifters may be found or maybe they could be dealer installed in other year engines. Don't remember specifics but as an aside to the subject of the article it suggested mechanics be sure to stamp an H on any engine that normally would not have had hydraulic lifters but mechanic had found or maybe installed them.

There have been some 22-23 series with an H suffix found and have been asked about on various forums.

Attach file:

---

  H suffix.jpg (105.29 KB)

I agree there were probably some changes made by a particular dealer in California, and maybe a few others, but 95% will fall into the info I found. The main thing to remember is 22nd Series all start with prefix G, 23rd Series all start with prefix H. Suffix letters all fall after the end of the engine numbers hence the term suffix. According to the Packard International website. If the suffix (H ) was used by a dealer, it would be at the end (suffix) and stamped into the block. All factory hydraulic applications were only started by the Packard factory during the 23rd series, and had the Suffix (F).