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

We wanted to share a recent issue with a customers 54 Clipper that was in our shop. Hope this observation will aid in others future diagnosis:


We had a 54 Clipper in our restoration shop last year with many slightly noisy lifters , we replaced them all. This year the owner returned with two more noisy lifters, we replaced them with no improvement. Then we went further and completely removed the two valves that were noisy and found they were extremely difficult to withdraw from the block. The guides had gunk and rust in them and the cause of the continued noise was sticky valves.


We examined the block and head carefully and found a tiny crack in the combustion chamber of the head, allowing a slight water leak. Replaced the head, all is well.

James From
Kanter Auto Product

Very useful info, thanks.