Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

I need some assistance with some leaks please. For the last (2) weekends I've been wanting to fire the 400 but, I can't stop a couple of leaks. Despite several attempts, no less than (3) each side, I continue to get leaks from the rear of the heads where the cross-shafts are affixed. (I've attached a pic from an old head I have in the shop for illustrative purposes)

As 55-56 owners are aware, on the driver's side the temperature senor is affixed and on the passenger side there is a water outlet, that feeds the heater core(s).

Thoughts appreciated.

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Kevin, I've had the engine out of my 400 (and the Carib) and had the heads out of the 400 on a separate occasion. I never had a problem with leaks at those locations.
Dumb question - you do have the gaskets for those in place?? They are the same gasket as used for the water manifold at the front of the engine.

Also never had any problems there. Might throw a straightedge across and make sure the bolt holes haven't been depressed or distorted so they are bottoming out before the actual plate is tight across the middle.

The bolts are 3/8-16 X 3/4 long. You may have too long a bolt there - again a dumb question.

Good points gentleman. Many thanks!

No apparent leaks after (24) hours now. The flange plates were not square, so the flanges were filed 'flat' with a hand file. Further, I placed a large flat washer underneath the locking washer and bolt. I thought I needed to also increase the 'footprint' so to speak and or expand downward pressure over more area to create a better seal. Well I think it worked as I brought it up to 9/10 lbs pressure and she held. And yes , I stood there for about 10 minutes looking upward and no green droplets were seen. Now being somewhat superstitious (murphy law), I'll be quite now and hope for the best.

Fired engine today and ran for 1/2 hour. Seems to be holding fine now.