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

hello to all, i have the engine running, it has one ticking lifter, im hoping it will settle down with time...
Now to the question at hand.... I have a rebuilt water pump to install, and im thinking of removing and cleaning the water tube...

Does the grill have to be removed for the water tube to clear?? I dont mind taking out the radiator as i will back flush it, but
i dont think im ready to remove the grill???

Thanks Paul

You didn't specify the year/model in question, but the short answer is yes.

The tube is nearly as long as the engine block, and it's fragile, so you don't want to bend it or mangled trying to squeeze it out through the grill.

So best to pull the grill.

With that and the radiator out it will make all jobs at the front of the motor much easier.

I pulled the water tube on the 327 in my 1951 last summer and YES, you have to pull the grille to get it out.
Very glad i did pull it. LOTS of crud and whatnot built up in the end of near cyl's 7 & 8.
Took some time to get it all cleaned out, but well worth it in my opinion.
Flushed out the block as well at this time.
70+ years of all kinds of stuff !

Last year I had the same problem. I pulled the front clip for several reasons you might consider. My front shocks were leaking badley the engine was over heating, I rebuilt the generator added an oil filter, installed a new water pump, replaced the front motor mounts and installed a new timing chain and gears.i purchased a new water distribution tube from Max. Merritt and had the Rad boiled out ant flow and pressure tested at a local shop.I found that it was just as much work to pull the clip as to work blindly trying to get the grill out without a couple of trips to the emergency room. I wouldn't have attempted pulling the clip until I found a you tube video of a refurb of a 38 Packard coup.The increase in power from the new timing chain was remarkable.
Jim Long