Packard Forum Index » Modification Discussion

Uncertain until I confirm the adapters are available. Then I will solicit advice. This car can be so much more enjoyable with an auto tranny. It already has been converted to 12 volts and has a good A/C.

out of curiousity, I understand first hand the foibles of the Packard column shifter (mine fell out of 2nd yesterday on a bump), but what advantage do you see to an automatic? We're all big boys (and girls) here and know how to shift, after all.

Well, I will need to get clarification from this place just what Packard engine they were developing an adpater for as below is the email response I received. I have very limited data on this 120 and certainly no bell housing or crank figures.

"I don't know if my kit will work with that year engine. Send me a sketch of the bellhousing bolt pattern and crank bolt pattern and we can find out."

Th advantages of the automatic include, high on the list, convenience and not having to deal with clutches and overdrive cables and switchs for OD solenoids and all that. I have other stick shift cars, but this one is most cumbersome and an auto is the modern way to go.

actually, the newer dual dry clutch, no clutch pedal transmissions combine many advantages of both manual and auto, but that's a conversion way beyond my contemplation!

Trog. Whatever trans u choose be sure to get one with Overdrive. The Overdrive will make the car even much more enjoyable for Interstate travel speeds and also increase engine life. That engine has a REAL LONG STROKE???? The long stroke at higher rpm's will cause premature ring wear because the piston speed is so much faster than in a shorter stroke engine at the same RPM.

CERTAINLY, the Packard Streight 8 has plenty of power to handle the overdrive and sustain 65 to 70 mph throughout all modern driving conditions?????? JUST NEED to keep engine RPM low. Hence the Over drive argument.

So, anyone have bellhousing bolt pattern and crank bolt pattern for the '41 120 282 straight?

Apparently this adapters place used a a 195? engine as a pattern. So, looks like a no go here for us '41s. Too bad!

The transmission adapter company offers one for a Hudson 308. Didn't Hudson use Packard engines? The photo looks very close.

http://www.transmissionadaptors.com/Hudson308.htm

Hudson used their own engines through out the life of the company, save '55 and up until May, '56, when they used Packard V8s. Nash, the same years and engines.

Hudson used their own engines through out the life of the company, save '55 and up until May, '56, when they used Packard V8s. Nash, the same years and engines.

True, but you could still get the old Hudson L-6 308 in 55 and 56, and it was a wonderful engine.